I am raising funds to support my dear friend in Ukraine, Tatyana Sagizly, in her battle with ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis), also known as Lou Gehrig’s Disease. ALS is a devastating and currently incurable neurological illness that progressively robs a person of the ability to move, speak, eat, and eventually breathe.

Tatyana was diagnosed with ALS in 2020 at just 47 years old. Since then, she has faced this unimaginable diagnosis with courage, strength, and determination. She is a true fighter. Every day, she chooses hope. She refuses to give up and continues to believe in the possibility of a breakthrough or miracle.

Tatyana was first diagnosed when she was living in the United States. Unfortunately, due to circumstances beyond her control, she had to move back to her home country of Ukraine. Just a few months later, the war began. Her hometown, Dnipro, has been under repeated attacks. Alongside this devastating illness, she suddenly found herself surrounded by violence and uncertainty, with no way to leave the country. Tatyana not only battles ALS but also endures the daily stress and danger of war. This past winter was especially difficult, as Ukraine experienced widespread electricity and heating outages. For someone living with advanced ALS — unable to move independently — freezing temperatures and power loss are not just uncomfortable, but life-threatening.

Today, Tatyana can no longer walk, use her hands, or speak. Only her sharp mind and powerful will to live remain untouched. She requires full assistance with all daily activities, including bathing, dressing, eating, transferring from bed to wheelchair, and personal care. To survive, Tatyana has hired several caregivers who provide the constant care she needs. The cost of this essential support has consumed all her financial resources. She urgently needs help to continue paying for her caregiving services.

A note from Tatyana:

“I am holding on to one simple human hope — to live one more year. To have that chance, I need your help. Your generous gifts will go toward my basic, essential needs: caregivers, minimal food, and everyday necessities. Thank you from the bottom of my heart!”

This cause is deeply personal to me. My husband, Sem, is also living with ALS, so I understand firsthand the physical, emotional, and financial toll this disease takes on families.

As Tatyana's friend, I am asking for your compassion and generosity. Any donation, no matter the amount, will help Tatyana continue receiving the care she needs, preserve her dignity, and maintain hope.

If possible, please share this fundraiser!

Thank you in advance for your kindness and support.

With gratitude,

Lyudmila Lederman

Friend of Tatyana