Help Alison Recover from Rare Disease

Our good friend Alison had a sudden life threatening medical event in November. Lymphatic fluid started leaking into her chest. It quickly became difficult for Alison to breathe, walk, or talk. This event was a result of her having Lymphangioleiomyomatosis, or LAM. LAM is a rare multi-system disease that usually strikes women in the prime of their lives. Alison was put on life saving medication to help fix the leak, and is starting to improve, but the medication takes months to have full effect. In the meantime, until the leak is fixed, Alison has to undergo regular chest tube drainings in order to breathe, a special diet to deal with complications including malnutrition, and ongoing scans and lab work to monitor how she's doing.

Before being stricken with LAM, Alison was a passionate swing dancer and an integral member of her dance community. She loved spending time with friends, and her laughter quickly filled whatever space she happened to be in. She was an active member of her Jewish community, including being one of the young adult leaders of an historic synagogue in Boston. Professionally, Alison had a long and accomplished career as a social worker and therapist helping children and families, and she shared her same laughter, humor, and optimism with both her clients and friends. Many of us have been on the receiving end of her emotional support, and we know what a strong advocate and cheerleader she can be for those around her, both personally and professionally.

Alison was diagnosed with LAM in 2011, and had her first chest leak in 2015. She also struggles with the autoimmune illnesses Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME) and Graves' Disease. Alison's tremendous spirit and determination drive her to get well. But she is currently not able to work, and is in dire need of financial assistance while she continues her treatment and recovery from this current LAM episode. So we are turning to you for help.

Our goal is to raise enough money to help Alison pay for basic living and medical expenses (such as rent, food, uncovered medical costs) for the next several months. Alison has spent much of her life helping others in their time of need, whether it be her clients, colleagues, friends, or family. We are hoping that the spirit of giving can now be turned towards her in her time of need. Our goal is to raise $50,000. Please help however you can. And thank you!

Madeline and Miryam


For information on LAM:
www.thelamfoundation.org

For information on ME:
www.omf.ngo/what-is-mecfs/
www.meaction.net

For information on Graves' Disease:
www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/endocrine-diseases/graves-disease