Amanda is an amazing 48-year-old woman whose life changed suddenly in June of 2016, when she went from seeing very full twelve-hour+ days of patients as a doctor of East Asian Medicine (Licensed Acupuncturist and Herbalist) to lying in a dark room, unable to talk or move. Over the next months and years, through extensive tests and consultations, Amanda learned she has genetic metabolic disease, a rare cellular condition with no straightforward cure.
Now, Amanda lives with chronic and acute disability, including extended stroke-like episodes of limb paralysis and inability to speak, as well as extreme and chronic pain. She often requires a wheelchair or rollator, and daily and weekly drug protocols and medical procedures are her reality.
True to her spirit and intelligence, Amanda is living through these challenges with grace and generosity. She is as devoted as ever to her family and friends. She is a member of a Philadelphia Threshold Choir, she advocates for disability rights, and she is always learning and giving.
As much as Amanda would love to return to her career, she cannot. She is single, receives no spousal support, and is alone responsible for her living expenses, as well as uncovered medical necessities that average $23,000 a year. Her sole income is from Social Security Disability.
Amanda’s most immediate medical needs include medical equipment and mobility devices; medical hydration and nutrition; medications and treatments prescribed by her clinicians; medical supplies; and insurance premiums and co-pays.
Amanda is fundraising for Help Hope Live in her honor to ask for assistance with medical expenses so that she can manage her disability without financial destitution. She is reaching out to her supportive network of friends and family asking that you consider making a donation to help fund unpaid medical expenses associated with Amanda’s catastrophic illness.
Amanda has chosen to fundraise with Help Hope Live in part because donations are tax deductible for contributors and will only be used to cover medical and related expenses.
Please consider making a donation to help Amanda as she navigates this complicated medical journey. With your help and support she hopes to find a path towards greater connection, competence, and joy.
Thank you,
Friends of Amanda
