Shelley is a single 56 year old woman diagnosed with a rare autoimmune disease called Autoimmune Encephalitis or AE. Only 500 people world wide are currently diagnosed with AE. Her condition is worsening and the effects of the Encephalopathy and the brain damage caused by it have rendered her unable to work, drive, and function in every day life. She suffers from symptoms including cognitive dysfunction, incontinence, motor instability, muscle spasms, tremors, seizures, ataxia and severe debilitating pain. Simple every day tasks such as personal hygiene, meal preparation and family interaction are becoming extremely difficult and on some days impossible. The effects of AE are irreversible however further damage is preventable with proper treatment.

Our goal in this step of Shelley's journey is to raise the funds for travel expenditures for her out of state stay. Travel expenditures include flights, lodging and meals to see Dr. Eric Lancaster in the Neurology Department at the The Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania where he can provide the best care to effectively treat her. Her children support Shelley in what ways they can but have exhausted their financial resources. 

Whether you can donate $5, $50 or more every penny makes a difference. Thank you for hearing her story and for your contribution!

http://www.youcaring.com/medical-fundraiser/support-for-shelley-/238597 http://www.bethechangebaf.com/blog/2015/2/support-for-shelley?customize=3