Offer a helping hand to Shannon, Rahsan, and Teo

If you are reading this, chances are you know and care about Shannon, Rahsan, and/or Teo.

I am writing this as someone who has known and loved Shannon her entire life. Though years apart, I’ve always felt a strong connection to Shannon, considering her both a cousin and a dear friend. I watched her grow up, full of smiles and joy, with an abundance of activity and passion for many things. Watching her struggle with ME/CFS is heartbreaking, as I know she yearns to feel alive again, to be more active in Teo’s life, and to resume activities so many of us take for granted.

Times are extremely tough for Shannon, Rahsan, and Teo. With Shannon bedridden, and Rahsan being an artist who is also largely responsible for taking care of Teo and Shannon, the bills and requirements to make ends meet are overwhelming and can seem insurmountable.

For those who are not aware of Shannon’s condition, this is an explanation from her friend, Heather Seckinger: Shannon suffers from severe Myalgic Encephalomyelitis, or ME. It’s a multi-system disorder that leads to cardiac, neurological, immunological, and mitochondrial dysfunction. Unfortunately, it’s not well understood and there is no cure. This has left Shannon unable to work and provide for her family. Her days are spent in bed, where she needs to constantly rest in order to avoid any exertion that can worsen her condition. It’s a devastating illness that has robbed her of her life.

Shannon, Rahsan, and Teo are hoping for support in paying their rent, insurance, and other bills, and giving Teo a Christmas filled with joy. They would appreciate any kindness you can offer. If you would like to send Teo something for Christmas, you can message me on Facebook for their address: Diana Lilly Toren. If you would like to contact Rahsan for some spectacular art, their website is www.rahsanekedal.com

Thank you so much!