Barbara’s Battle with Relapsing Polychondritis

Hello everyone, I would like to share a little about my sister and why I am asking for your help. Barbara, a devoted mother, loving wife, genuine friend, and incredible daughter, sister, was diagnosed with Relapsing Polychondritis in 2019.

We are Blessed with the amount of people who have reached out to see how they can help, and we are thankful for all the well wishes. This fund is set up for Barbara to help during this time of heartaches and to navigate through the devastating disease and treatment. It will help toward supporting, homecare, and medical expenses.

In 2019 Barbara experienced difficulty breathing, and assumed it was covid. She continued taking over the counter medication, but the pain persisted. In 2020, her difficulty breathing continued to worsen and was told by her specialist her antibodies began to attack her immune system. A surgery for a stint to be placed would be needed to help her with her breathing

This surprising news shocked everyone and broke our hearts. Throughout this time, Barbara had an outpour of support. We are so thankful for all the wonderful friends and family that have supported her and the family during this difficult time. Everyone has pulled together their resources and contacts to expedite her care and treatment.

Barbara worked for Pleasanton City Hall for 17 years and had to medically retire. December 2021, she received Administrative Employee of the year. She was described as someone who “brings positive energy, professionalism”. No matter where my sissy goes, she shows kindness, care and always has a positive spirit to encourage others.

Barbara is currently in ICU at Memorial Hermann in Houston Texas. We don’t know what life will bring us, but this diagnosis has been a rude awakening.

The emotional burden is more than any family should have to bear. Any donation is greatly appreciated.

Thank you for your support. Your prayers, thoughts and love are truly appreciated during this difficult time

With sincere gratitude,

The Martinez Family.