Shimoli Family's ALS Medical Cost Relief Fund

Co-organized

Todd Johnson and Jesseca Smith are organizing this fundraiser on behalf of Caren Shimoli.

Donation protected

Our Cause:

Our brother Andrew, husband, father of two and Iraq combat veteran with over 17 years of service has very recently been diagnosed with ALS. This shocking news has rocked him, his family, friends and co-workers. Andrew has lost use of his hands and arms already and is buckling down for a long fight with this terrible disease. His family is in need of financial support to reimburse extensive uncovered medical costs.

Background:

While on duty this summer and standing in formation, Andrew was holding a salute through the National Anthem and began to struggle to hold up his arm, sweating and straining, but holding his salute. Soon, other troubling physical signs began to emerge. This winter, after many treatments and appointments, Andrew was diagnosed with ALS. The fight for his life has just begun.

Andrew and those who love him, are fiercely hopeful and are willing to attempt anything that improve his chances and his quality of life. The Shimoli's are draining their retirement and savings accounts in order to obtain a wide-range of treatments not covered by their health insurance: cryotherapy, hyperbaric chamber, IV therapy, costly vitamins, weekly heavy-metal detox, and two experimental treatments that cost over 41k by themselves, just to name a few.

Their Need:

Andrew and his wife Caren are both working parents for their 7 y/o son and 12 y/o daughter who have all the typical costs of a young, active family of four. With Andrew now unable to work, Caren has stepped up, adjusting to her new role and is selflessly caring for him, running their home and working as much as she can. The Shimoli's have spent well over $50k in treatments alone and we are trying to preserve their remaining savings for the future, although costs will certainly continue to mount.

We are hoping to stop or slow the trajectory that this disease has taken. Each treatment brings hope, and hope is what we need. Please help relieve the pressure of this huge financial burden during the most stressful time of their lives. Please join us in giving, and join us in prayer for the Shimoli family.