A crowdfunding campaign has been launched for an ailing Wallaceburg woman.
Alleighsha Gauthier suffered a series of strokes back on November 8, 2019 and was hospitalized in Chatham as a result. She remained in hospital until February 19, 2020 when she was discharged and brought to a long-term care residence.
“Alleighsha, a 40-year-old childhood cancer survivor, diagnosed at five (Rhabdomyosarcoma, extremely rare with only a 5-10% survival rate), needs your help,” Carlene Phillips Gauthier, who created the fundraiser, said on the GoFundMe campaign page.
“Chemo and radiation, caused other health issues, mainly affecting her heart which only functions at about 20%. Alleighsha is a Wallaceburg resident and a Wallaceburg Concert Band member, and has fought and over come many health issues her whole life for her independence.”
Carlene Phillips Gauthier added: “Tragically, that was taken away from her on November 8, 2019. Alleighsha suffered some strokes, possibly caused because of her heart, that have left her hemiplegic. The strokes were on the right side of her brain which have left her paralyzed on the left side along with balance and memory issues.”
Carlene Phillips Gauthier said while some progress has been made, she will require many more months and years of rehab.
“Money raised will go toward therapy, medical equipment and additional living expenses while trying to regain her independence, as this has left her unable to return to her home,” she said.
“Let’s show Alleighsha our love by supporting her, in her efforts to recover from this huge set back and regain her independence.”
The GoFundMe campaign was created on January 17, 2020 and has raised $2,615 of the $10,000 goal.
“We appreciate any and all donations,” Carlene Phillips Gauthier said.
“A huge thank you to all who take the time to donate. These donations will go toward helping Alleighsha and her family get through this rough time.”
Carlene Phillips Gauthier said moving into the residence is the only option at this point for Alleighsha.
“We are nervous and scared for her to start this new adventure in her life,” she said.
“The strokes have taken her independence so at this point there is no choice. This is so not how you expect your child’s life to go.”
Carlene Phillips Gauthier said “unfortunately” this situation is putting a huge financial burden on Alleighsha and her family.
“She needs your help,” she said.
“Any donation you can give will be greatly appreciated and will help to make things a little easier on all of us. We have a long way to go and a long road ahead.”
To donate, click here.
