Hope Raisers

I am Hope Raising for the Scleroderma Foundation to help those whose lives have been affected by this disease and I need your support!

   I am running the Cape Cod Marathon in memory of my late sister in law Susan Shanley. She lived with the effects of scleroderma for over 10 years, starting with overwhelming itching all over, progressing to skin changes that severley limited her mobility, caused her finger bones to lose circulation resulting in functional loss of her hands, she became unable to drive, move around frrely and ultimately required assistance with everyday activities including dressing and feeding herself. My brother John was there every step of the way with her, helping her get through the day with as much dignity (and humor) as possible. 

  The disease ultimately spread to her heart and lungs, causing life threatening arrythmias requiring a pacemaker. She came home from the hospital for he last time early September with Hospice care and passed away September 29 at home with my brother and niece. 

    I have been a nurse for 30 years and have seen few things more horrible than this disease. I am grateful for my health and ability to move, use my hands and live a full life. I hope to run this marathon well for my own personal goals but also to help in some small way so others won't have to suffer. 

Donating through this website is simple, fast and totally secure. It is also the most efficient way to support my fundraising efforts.

All contributions are for the Scleroderma Foundation to use to help find a cure for those whose lives have been affected by scleroderma.

If you would like to find out more about scleroderma and the Foundation, please visit national.scleroderma.org.

Many thanks for your support -- and don't forget to forward this to anyone who you think might want to donate too!