To know our friend Danielle is to love her! We have the opportunity to support her by supporting her mom, Shanti, who was recently diagnosed with ALS. Below is a summary of what has been happening for Shanti.

"After a year and a half of specialist visits and a few dozen tests, my mom has been diagnosed with a rare type of ALS. Over months or years, this progressive neurodegenerative disease weakens muscles until a person can no longer move, speak, swallow, or breathe on their own. There is no cure, but some treatments can slow it down and improve quality of life. It is devastating and relentless to face something like this.

The doctors say she is still very strong, and though she can have muscle stiffness that can cause imbalance, her body is still very strong. She is more than able to take care of herself and really, the biggest difference right now is her loss of speech and decrease in energy.

Because of this disease she is no longer able to teach yoga or continue as a massage therapist. Without this income, she has been unable to afford housing. She left Florida to stay with me and Emerson in Portland. Being diagnosed with a terminal illness, losing your ability to speak, along with your livelihood and passion, and moving from your home and away from your friends and community –– I'm not sure I can even explain how resilient my mom is to face all of this.

I wish her social security income was enough to keep her autonomy, since she still is more than capable of living on her own, but it just isn't. It would really support her well-being to live independently for as long as she can. In the future, her independence just won't be possible. Through this journey we've been supported by friends and family and I am so grateful for any support that comes our way now and in the future –– in whatever shape that comes in."

We are raising funds to help support Shanti's living expenses for the next two years. While Danielle has some savings to contribute, Shanti still needs additional support to afford stable housing and maintain her independence for as long as possible. We’ve found a small, accessible apartment within walking distance to resources and community, and just 10 minutes from Danielle and Emerson. This fundraiser will help support rent and basic expenses, ensuring she can maintain her autonomy and well-being during this transition.

Thank you for your support!