Support for Ava Delaney-Lawrence

Hello, my name is William Delaney and I am raising emergency funds for the medical care of my sister, Ava Delaney-Lawrence!

Dr. Ava Delaney-Lawrence (also affectionately known as Dr. D-L) has always been a strong, hardworking, independent single mother who has educated hundreds of children and adults throughout her 35+ year career in the Atlanta Public School System and in the State of Georgia's University educational system. She has also devoted many years as an officer and devoted member of the Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. along with serving as a board member and youth leader for her church for over three decades. Unfortunately, about ten years ago, she found out that she would be facing the challenge of living with the long-term, debilitating illness ,Multiple Sclerosis. This "dis-ease" has affected her in many unexpected ways. It began by causing her a great deal of pain, forcing early retirement and soon after limited her mobility.

Late in August of 2023, Dr. D-L suddenly became unable to use the right side of her body, which has left her dependent on others for activities of daily living, which we all take for granted. (Her mind and spirit are both still quite sharp and strong, though!)

In October 2023, while at a pre-op appointment, she was sent to the ER because of a extremely low heart rate. Upon her visit to the ER, she learned that she needed to receive a pacemaker immediately. In December of 2023, she underwent spinal fusion/neck surgery to attempt to take some pressure off of the spinal cord in hopes to allow for some movement in her limbs and perhaps decrease some of the reoccuring pain from MS.

Before she can begin any intense physical therapy, she must allow her body to heal from the spinal surgery. Her insurance will only cover about four weeks in her current rehab facility, and she will soon be once again left to figure out care.

As a result of her incapacitation, she has found herself needing 24-hour/in-home care, which has been costing her approximately $6,000 to $8,000/month. She has been trying to maintain her care on a retirees income and her personal savings. According to government standards, she does not meet the criteria for assistance. She has been denied any financial disability assistance as well. Her personal funds have quickly been depleted.

This fundraiser was created to help her with daily round-the-clock care, until additional resources can be obtained. ANY amount that you could share would help tremendously and would be extremely appreciated.