My friend and coworker, Steph Penza, has been diagnosed with Degos disease, an extremely rare condition that affects the small blood vessels and can cause serious complications where internal organs are affected. Because of how rare this disease is, it can often go undiagnosed or be mistaken for other conditions.

Steph’s journey has been incredibly difficult. It began with bleeding stomach ulcers that eventually required surgery. About six months ago, she underwent another major stomach surgery, during which a significant portion of her intestines had to be removed. Shortly after that surgery, the skin on her hands began peeling, but she was initially misdiagnosed with eczema.

Then, in May, Steph suffered a hip fracture without any known cause and required immediate surgery. Since then, her health has continued to decline. She became wheelchair-bound and is now in the ICU, where her medical team is working with specialists at the Human Care Center in Washington, D.C. to better understand and treat this extremely rare disease.

Steph has used up all of her benefits and is currently unable to work or receive a paycheck. Meanwhile, life and expenses continue for her 15-year-old daughter, Izzy, and her boyfriend, Scotty, who are by her side through all of this. Her mom, dad, and sister are also praying every day for Steph to get well and come through this.

This family is facing an unimaginable amount of stress and uncertainty. While Steph is focused on fighting this disease and getting stronger, the medical and everyday bills continue to pile up.

If you’re able, please consider donating to help Steph and her family during this incredibly difficult time. Any amount, no matter how small, can make a difference and help ease some of the financial burden they are facing.

If you’re unable to donate, sharing this page would mean so much to Steph and her family.

Thank you for your support, prayers, and kindness. ❤️