Support for Stephanie’s Fight against ALS

We come together now as family, friends, and loving humans to support Stephanie and Alejandro in their fight against ALS. ALS, is a progressive nervous system disease, also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease. Steph was diagnosed in spring of 2021 with Bulbar ALS, initially experiencing issues with speech and swallowing. Steph is one of the kindest, most compassionate, and generous individuals who is also a  devoted daughter, wife, sister, cousin, and friend. She is always willing to go out of her way to help others, but won’t ask for help in return. This is why we need to come together for them.

 

Steph graduated from Arizona State University and eventually moved to North Carolina where she calls home. Lifelong friendships have been made wherever she goes from social gatherings, engineering days, softball and food truck life. She has an infectious personality and spirit that draws people to her. Her beautiful laugh and optimistic outlook on life has been a gift to all that know her. She is always willing to assist others in need.

 

In 2009, Steph met Ale at George’s Garage (Latin Night) in Durham and the two knew they were meant for each other. In 2016, they opened their own food truck, Morfa Empanadas. With hard work and determination, just as they had dreamed, it became a success. Steph and Ale were married March 16th of 2021. With the progression of ALS, Steph was unable to continue working and the couple had to sell Morfa Empanadas. Ale takes care of Steph around the clock with food preparation, assisting with treatments, taking her to appointments, moral support, and so much more. Due to the ALS diagnosis, they have many financial challenges both current and upcoming. Despite all of this, Steph and Ale have remained positive.

 

They have been on an incredible journey for over a year now with a holistic approach which includes extensive testing and treatments. Inflammation contributes to chronic diseases that can be caused from environmental toxins and stress. The goal is to minimize inflammation so that her body can rest, detoxify, and repair itself. They have an INCREDIBLE team put together of functional medicine specialists.

 

In an effort to provide a better quality of life, Steph has started treatments at Body Science (in Miami, Florida). Treatments are beneficial to healing the body but are expensive. Cost of treatment is $7,500 per week. Treatments typically range from one to three weeks in length and are repeated multiple times per year. None of the treatments are covered by insurance. In addition to the treatment costs, there are travel expenses and accommodations.

 

Now is the time to help Steph and Ale by relieving some of their financial burden. Making a donation, in whatever amount feels comfortable, will positively impact them as they navigate this journey. Thank you so much for opening your heart and donating to this fight. Your support means the world to Steph and Ale and is beyond appreciated.