Christine Nunzio

Dear Friends, Family, and Kindhearted Supporters, Our daughter Mariyah, at just 14 years old, has already overcome more in her young life than most ever will. But recently, our world was turned upside down. Mariyah was admitted to the ICU and diagnosed with a very rare pediatric form of Tumefactive Multiple Sclerosis. This is where the MS creates Tumors in her brain and not lesions. She started with two Tumefactive tumors on her brain, and now has four. Her tumors are located near the frontal lobe so it is affecting her cognitive abilities. Some weeks, she is full of strength, joy, and light. Other weeks are incredibly difficult. Through it all, we are holding tightly to our faith and trusting that God has a plan for her life. As parents, our greatest concern is not just today, but her future. Through this journey, we’ve connected with other families living with MS, many who were diagnosed later in life. Their stories have opened our eyes to how difficult this road can become. Many have shared how challenging it is to maintain steady work, manage ongoing medical costs, and keep up with everyday living expenses as the disease progresses. We have discovered that even with strength and determination, there are times when just going to school is hard, and in time, working will become limited or impossible. Mariyah is only 14, and her having to face a rare and aggressive form of this disease so early in life, and that reality has changed everything for us. As we get older, our greatest fear is that one day she could be left in a position where she has to choose between paying for care, paying her bills, or even something as basic as food or keeping the lights on. We cannot bear the thought of her carrying that burden. We simply do not have the financial means on our own to fully secure her future in the way she may need. That is why we are asking for help now, so we can put a plan in place that gives Mariyah security, dignity, and peace of mind, no matter what her journey looks like. We are raising funds to help protect Mariyah’s future, which will go toward: - A Long-Term Care Policy: We were blessed to secure a policy for her, but maintaining it is critical to ensure she always has access to the care she may need. - Medical & Ongoing Expenses: Including insurance deductibles, specialized testing, treatments, and care associated with such a rare and unpredictable disease. - Education & Support: Tutoring and private schooling to help her continue learning and thriving, even during the more difficult times. - A Future Care & Income Fund: A financial foundation that will grow over time, so if this disease progresses and limits her ability to work, she will still have stability and independence. This journey has brought an overwhelming weight of uncertainty and stress. As a mother, I cannot put into words the fear of not being here one day and wondering who will care for her, where she will live, and how she will be supported. But we believe in God’s promises. We believe He makes a way, even when we cannot see it. We pray that He works through the kindness and generosity of others to help us give Mariyah the future she deserves, a future without fear. Every donation, every share, and every prayer means more than we could ever express. Thank you for standing with us, loving Mariyah, and being part of her journey. With faith, hope, and gratitude, Christine Nunzio (Mariyah’s Mom)