The Collins Family Fundraiser

***PLEASE NOTE:***

1. GoFundMe automatically puts a "tip" option which goes entirely to them. You can choose to leave it at $0 to opt out.

2. All funds are deposited directly into Gail/Cy's account to go towards the priorities listed below, even though the creator of the Fundraiser is under a different name.

Thank you. *

As most of you are aware: my dad, Cy Collins, was recently diagnosed with ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis).

ALS is a neurodegenerative disorder that progressively deteriorates a persons motor neurons. Motor neurons are responsible for voluntary movements such as; leg and arm movement, facial movement, head movement, swallowing, chewing, and breathing.

Unfortunately, at this time there is no clear cause or cure, there is only treatment that reduces the progression of the disease by 25-50%.

There are 2 types of ALS, sporadic (limb onset) and familia (bulbar), one is faster progressing and one is slower. Though the ‘slower’ one has a life expectancy of 2-5 year, and the faster is 2-2.7 years.

My dad has already been having symptoms/degeneration for about one year.

During this time my dads motor function will continue to decline and what were once simple tasks (like eating, brushing teeth, getting dressed) have become extremely difficult, and eventually, will not be possible.

We are doing everything we can to extend his time with us and to take advantage of the limited time we do have together. Especially the precious time he gets to spend with his one and only grandchild, Lexa Rose.

The purpose of this fundraiser is to:

A) Fund the ALS medication(s) to slow down the disease progression (estimated from $500-$2,500 per month)

B) Fund Alternative Therapies with promising results to slow progression (estimated $1,200+ per month)

C) Fund Home Construction & Modifications (estimated $15,000+)

D) Aid in income replacement (estimated $2,000 per month)

E) Potentially fund some of Cy’s bucket-list activities, if he wishes.

Thank you all for reading through this and supporting our family during this devastating time…

In whatever way you are able to support our family - know we greatly appreciate you and your help.

And please, don’t be shy to reach out to Cy to let him know you’re thinking about him. He gains positivity from these messages.

Thank you, from the bottom of our hearts,

The Collins Family.

(For more information on diagnosis, medical/alternative therapies and treatments, etc. please feel free to contact Shauna with any questions you may have.)