Hi! If you don’t know me, my name is Cherie, and Cristin DeCamville (formerly Canfield) has been my best friend literally as long as I can remember. We grew up next-door to each other…we were college roommates…we were each other’s maids of honor…and 50 years later, we’re still the best of friends.

As many of you know, Cristin is a single mom who battles Lupus. This awful disease, which requires her to be on Chemo medication, has robbed her of her strength and her energy. She is in near constant pain, chronically exhausted, and severely limited in her daily life. Even though Lupus has stolen much from her, she continues to give back to the world through her business, DeCamville Arts, which offers virtual sessions of karaoke, piano, and art, as well as book clubs, to those of all ages and abilities. Despite the fact that Cristin works her business from her bed as she struggles with the severe physical limitations of Lupus, teaching is her passion! She loves every moment she spends with her students, who are her favorite part of her week.

Late Wednesday night, Cristin passed out in the shower, breaking her Tibia and fracturing her kneecap. Due to her severe arthritis, her injuries were more severe than one would expect. She is currently in the hospital and will eventually be moved to a rehabilitation facility for up to 8 weeks.

Cristin needs our help with medical expenses and lost wages until she is back on her feet. She wrote this message to all of you:

”I am absolutely overwhelmed by all the love I’m receiving from you all! ❤️ It’s truly keeping me afloat while we figure out the plan for healing this broken leg. Many of you are asking how you can help.❤️ Thank you. While I am incredibly uncomfortable asking for or receiving help, I have to admit this time, *deep breath* …I need it. I have to put pride aside and admit that I am unsure how to do this alone….if you have a dollar to spare, I assure you, it would be used wisely and carefully to ensure the lights stay on and food stays on the table.”

Please consider helping Cristin as she battles Lupus and heals from her broken leg and fractured kneecap. Every single dollar is greatly appreciated, and if you only have $5 to spare, she appreciates it more than you know!