Tracy's Parkinson's Journey
The Need:
Tracy was diagnosed several years ago with a rare form of Parkinson's. While she receives a monthly stipend from the State, the costs of living a comfortable and dignified life far exceed what the State provides — medical equipment, daily care, transportation, and feeding needs. Because of these challenges, 5 years ago we started the Tracy Walker Steele Parkinson's Research Foundation, to help with Tracy's daily needs and to help others.
Our Beliefs:
As Christians, we believe that through faith, hope, and prayer, our foundation will be blessed by God — helping us continue to care for Tracy, improve her health, and bring relief to others walking the same difficult road with Parkinson's.
Our Hope:
Right now, Tracy is beginning specialized training at Swedish/Providence hospital to use her Tobii Dynavox — a device she controls with her eyes. Her muscles may be still, but her eyes are ready to communicate. Soon she'll be able to tell us what she needs and how she's feeling. This is hope we can see.
The Challenge:
Tracy's rare form of Parkinson's is called Cortical Basal Ganglionic Degeneration — a form that does not respond to traditional treatments. She has been seen by specialists at the Booth Gardner Parkinson's Research Center and the National Institutes of Health, and their shared opinion is that she needs stem cell transplant treatment to improve her condition. These treatments are very expensive.
Your support will go toward stem cell treatments and her daily expenses.
Our Guarantee to our donors:
All money raised will be used solely for these purposes. With blessings, we hope to have enough to also help others. We will provide updates and videos so you can see what your donation is going toward, and we will keep you posted on her progress. Prayers are always appreciated.
Learn more about Corticobasal Degeneration here:
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/corticobasal-degeneration/symptoms-causes/syc-20354767
