My sister, Miki White Alter, is courageously battling advanced Parkinson’s disease. As her condition has progressed, she has become unable to work for the past several years or complete her bachelor’s degree, and her need for care has increased rapidly. She is also suffering from onset of dementia and needs 24/7 care.

Miki is the daughter of well known flamenco artist Isa Mura and Warren White, guitar luthier. Miki and her husband, Dale, have been forced to live apart due to financial and medical necessity. Dale, who is 75 years old, must continue working in the Bay Area, while Miki currently lives alone in Redding. This separation has been devastating, especially as Miki now requires round-the-clock care and has only limited part-time assistance. Dale requires knee surgery but cannot take the time off of work to have surgery.

Miki’s medical needs are urgent. She must be closer to Stanford Hospital to receive specialized treatment that could significantly improve her quality of life. At the same time, maintaining two households on Dale’s Social Security and wages is no longer sustainable. They are behind on essential bills, and recently their electricity was shut off due to lack of funds. They have no savings, no property to sell and own only one car as Miki cannot drive.

In just six months, Miki has lost over 50 lbs. She is dangerously thin at 5'8. Her health is fragile, and being alone places her at serious risk. Dale continues to work not by choice, but out of necessity, simply to keep them afloat. Miki and Dale are people of faith and are holding onto hope during this incredibly difficult time. They are both longtime members of Bethel Church in Redding. They believe that, with help, they can reunite, relocate closer to vital medical care, and restore some stability and dignity to their lives.

Any support — financial or through sharing this fundraiser — would make a meaningful difference. Your generosity can help keep Miki safe, bring her closer family members and the care she desperately needs, and ease the overwhelming burden they are carrying.

Thank you for your compassion and support.