My name is Sandra Holguin. I am a 48-year-old single mother of three awesome children. I was born and raised in El Paso, TX, graduating from Jefferson High School in 1986. Over 10 years ago, I was diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease, a serious disorder of the central nervous system. Fortunately, I am a good candidate for a stem cell transplant. However, funding this procedure is a monumental task. This is where my family and I need your help.

Despite my serious health challenges, I do my best to be as self-sufficient as possible, raising my children and even finding the time to participate in community service efforts. In fact, I recently organized a Christmas present, clothing, and food drive for 115 orphans in Juarez, Mexico. This was a source of great joy for me. However, when the drive was completed, my son looked at me and said “Mom, if you would put half the effort you put into helping others into your own fundraiser, you would be better by now. How about you help us for your next project?!?” That opened my eyes and made me realize that I cannot ignore my health issues any longer because I’m only harming myself and my kids who take care of me. Swallowing my pride, I’m now sharing my story with others in an appeal to make my transplant become a reality. I am hopeful that this procedure will return most of my movement back. I can only imagine how I could then really help those less fortunate!