If you know Kristin Kuk, you know she did not want me to make this GFM! But alas, it's time to pursue more mobility freedom while battling myasthenia gravis. Her journey with MG has been a rollercoaster, but currently, her limited muscle function greatly impacts community participation and independence in Cece's and Norah's activities outside of the home. We are asking for assistance in getting a lightweight power wheelchair to get Kristin more mobile! To understand Kristin's battle better, I have added an explanation of her disease process below. Understanding Chronic Illness Myasthenia Gravis is a chronic autoimmune disease that causes muscle weakness and fatigue. It affects the voluntary muscles, causing them to weaken and tire easily. Symptoms can vary from mild to severe day by day, hour by hour, and include difficulty speaking, chewing, swallowing, and breathing. Kristin has been diagnosed with MG for 10 years and has been on almost every treatment offered, all while suffering the inevitable side effects of those treatments just to keep her breathing and somewhat mobile. Her bad days do not allow her much mobility apart from bed and include wearing a non-invasive ventilator to breathe. Her good days might appear great or more normal activity but always involve "invisible symptoms" and cost her several bad days to recover. On top of MG, she is also battling POTS (postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome) which is a form of debilitating dysautonomia, MCAS (mast cell activation syndrome), and several other autoimmune conditions. She sees specialists and is on aggressive treatments for all these conditions with variable results. The Power of a Wheelchair A power wheelchair is an essential mobility aid that will significantly improve Kristin's quality of life and ability to be more present as a mom in Cece and Norah's play excursions and extracurricular activities. It will provide her with the opportunity for independence, mobility, and freedom to go places she cannot access with a rollator/walker alone. With a lightweight power wheelchair, she will be able to transport it with her to participate in family activities at community events with confidence and ease. Financial Need Unfortunately, the cost of a power wheelchair is substantial and exceeds what Kristin's family can afford on their own. Insurance does not cover this cost and customization is needed to meet her specific needs. We kindly request your support to help us raise the funds required to make this life-changing device a reality for Kristin and her family! How You Can Help We believe that together, we can make a significant impact on Kristin and her family's life. Your generous contribution, no matter how small or large, will bring us one step closer to our goal. Here are a few ways you can help: 1. Make a donation: Every dollar counts! Even the smallest donation can make a big difference in giving Kristin the chance for freedom in mobility! 2. Share the campaign: Spread the word about Kristin's story through social media, email, or word-of-mouth. The more people who hear about her situation, the more likely we are to reach our fundraising goal. 3. Offer words of encouragement: Your moral support is incredibly valuable. Leave a kind message, share your own experiences, or offer words of encouragement to let Kristin know you care and you see her. This is a huge part of the battle we fight against chronic illness! 4. Volunteer assistance: If you can offer help in any other areas that would support the Kuks through this health battle; it truly takes a village! Gratitude Most of all, we just appreciate you reading this and your interest in helping the Kuks and loving them. We know how selfless and generous the Kuk family is, always helping and thinking of others despite their hardship. Kristin is truly one of the most kind-hearted friends I have ever met and her determination and willpower to keep fighting is second to none. She is an inspiration of resilience and perseverance!
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