Sonya Bryson Med & Family Expenses

As the lights dim at Amalie Arena and everyone rises to pay tribute to our great country, Sonya Bryson takes center stage in front of 20,000 loyal fans. She represents empowerment, hope, philanthropy, and, public service. Although it is clear the second she steps onto the rink that Sonya embodies strength, there is something you may not know about her; she is battling Multiple Sclerosis. Through her positive attitude and optimism with the disease, you might never guess the challenges she is facing on a daily basis.

MS is a disabling disease of the central nervous system that disrupts the flow of information within the brain and between the brain and body. It is an immune-mediated process; an abnormal response of the body’s immune system is directed against the central nervous system, which is made up of the brain, spinal cord, and optic nerves. The exact target that the immune cells are sensitized to attack remains unknown

Not only do patients suffering from MS deal with physical and emotional pain, they must also deal with the financial burden that comes along with co-pays, doctor visits, and expensive prescription medicines. Medication for MS can cost upwards of $60,000 per year. Keeping a steady job along with having to deal with Multiple Sclerosis is no easy task. Although she and her family are trying their absolute hardest to make ends meet while paying the high cost of medical bills, it is becoming more and more difficult to cover living expenses. Making her financial hardship even more difficult, Sonya's husband Jimmy "Garcia" Kirksey recently underwent knee replacement surgery, which has left him unable to work while he continues to recover.

From her time in the Air Force as a maintenance manager, to performing the National Anthem during Tampa Bay Lighting Games, and most recently creating a nonprofit to help others impacted by MS, Sonya has proven herself as a community leader as well as someone always looking for ways to give back. It’s now our turn as a community to help Sonya and her family. Please consider a donation to help Sonya and her family as they struggle through the hurdles that come with a disease such as Multiple Sclerosis and her recent financial hardships. Please also help by sharing this and sending it to anyone you know that may have heard Sonya's beautiful rendition of our National Anthem and  would be willing to help.  Every dollar makes such a difference.