Hi, my name is Shelby, a close friend and co-worker of Lucas’s mom, Cassandra, and I’m reaching out during one of the most difficult times of their families lives. Her 6-year-old son, Lucas, has recently been diagnosed with PANDAS — a rare and often misunderstood autoimmune condition that has dramatically affected his daily life and well-being. There’s nothing more important to her than being by his side through this journey, which is why she has taken an unpaid leave from work under the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) to care for him full-time.

Up until last June, Lucas was a happy and healthy little boy who used to love school, playing outside, and being around friends. Over the past several months, everything changed. Seemingly overnight, he began struggling with sudden and severe symptoms: anxiety, motor tics, behavioral changes, obsessive thoughts, and sleep disturbances. After many appointments, tests, and referrals, they finally received a diagnosis: PANDAS (Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorders Associated with Streptococcal Infections).

PANDAS is a condition in which a child’s immune system mistakenly attacks the brain following a strep infection, leading to neurological and psychiatric symptoms. It has turned their world upside down.

Because of the severity of his symptoms, Lucas is unable to attend school right now, and he requires constant care and supervision. His treatment involves regular doctor visits, therapies, and sometimes medications or procedures that aren't fully covered by insurance. As his full-time caregiver, Cassandra had no choice but to take FMLA leave from her job — which protects her employment but provides no income.

They are doing everything they can to support Lucas through this medical journey, but the financial strain is real. Without two incomes, they are struggling to cover basic living expenses like:

• Rent and utilities

• Groceries and daily essentials

• Out-of-pocket medical expenses

• Transportation to specialists and therapy sessions

I’m humbly asking for your help on behalf of Lucas’s family during this incredibly challenging time. Any donation — no matter how small — will help keep their home stable and continue Lucas’s care. If you’re unable to donate, simply sharing this campaign with others can make a big difference.

Thank you for your compassion, prayers, and support. It means everything to their family as they focus on helping their little boy heal.