Dr. Stacey White 's Legacy: Support HD Care at TCCC NYC

In Loving Memory of Dr. Stacey White (1966-2025)

Dear Family and Friends,

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the peaceful passing of my beloved sister, and best friend, Dr. Stacey White, on February 8, 2025. A career pediatrician and an inspiring soul, Stacey fought a brave battle with Huntington's Disease (HD) for many years, living with grace and courage. She spent the last 18 years of her life at the Terrance Cardinal Cooke Center (TCCC) in New York City, a place that became her home and where she was provided the specialized care she needed for this debilitating disease.

Huntington's disease (HD) is an inherited neurological disorder that causes nerve cells (neurons) in parts of the brain to gradually break down and die. The disease attacks areas of the brain that help to control voluntary (intentional) movement, as well as other areas. People living with HD develop uncontrollable dance-like movements (chorea) and abnormal body postures, as well as problems with behavior, emotion, thinking, and personality.

HD STILL HAS NO CURE.

The onset of HD symptoms starts to affect most people in their 30's and 40's. Most long term care facilities are only trained to deal with the needs of elderly.

Stacey’s life and legacy are intertwined with the support and kindness she received at TCCC. The center was established by White family members that became home to my uncle, cousin, brother and sister amoung hundreds of past and current HD patients offering a safe and dignified space for them to live out their lives with the care they deserve.

This facility was a beacon of hope for Stacey, and in her memory, our family requests that donations be made to the Terrance Cardinal Cooke Center to continue supporting those living with HD.

Your generous Go Fund Me donations will go directly to the NYC HD UNIT in memory of Dr. Stacey White. enhancing the lives of the residents at TCCC, funding enriching activities such as monthly themed parties, cultural events, and outings in New York City. These moments of joy and connection are critical in brightening the lives of those living with Huntington's Disease.

Huntington’s Disease has deeply affected our family. My father, Hugh White, my older brother, Hughie White, and now my sister, Stacey, have all passed as a result of HD. Along with them, we’ve lost a grandfather, an aunt, and two uncles. Dozens of White Family cousins and their children have been touched by this cruel disease, and many others continue to live with its impact.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Stacey’s honor to TCCC, where her spirit will live on through the ongoing care and support provided to the residents there.

Thank you for your kindness, support, and for helping to keep Stacey’s memory alive.

Stacey was my Purple Amethyst Girl..she was all about everything Purple. Her 59 birthday was going to be on February 20. Two months every year Stacey and I were the same age.. this little fact was something she loved to tell people... Because she was always the younger sister.

With love and gratitude,

Lesa White-Forte

Joseph Forte

(Mac) Hugh White