Hi, my name is Alyssa and I am initiating this fundraiser for costs associated with a major medical crisis for my dear friend, amazing human Francis Cimmaron and their daughter Lively.
Francis has a rare genetic disorder called Ehlers-Danlos syndrome that affects their connective tissues and joints. Due to this condition, Francis lives and copes *incredibly* with an extreme amount of physical pain and limitations and recently had a major medical crisis. The recovery and aftermath will be ongoing.
On May 27th after over 3 weeks of extreme pain that was misdiagnosed as migraines Francis was admitted to the hospital and after what took an incredible amount of self-advocacy and community support Francis was diagnosed with a Cerebrospinal Fluid Leak, the fluid that protects their brain and spinal column was leaking through the dura of their spine. Francis was able to get a blood patch procedure on that has mitigated the pain and stopped the leak. This process and the care needed for their recovery have been monumental. Francis has been surrounded by many friends in the hospital and home helping them survive this. Folks have asked if this condition is life threatening, it usually is not bur it became so extreme it seemed very possible that Francis would not be able to pull through. It is a feat that Francis survived the past few weeks of unimaginable pain. As a result of the extreme pain Francis developed another condition and has been diagnosed with Functional Neurological Disorder which has caused them to experience seizure like convulsions that have further complicated recovery and care.
Francis is the devoted single parent of 16-year-old Lively and a steadfast friend and dear chosen family to many. Forever resilient they formed the inspiring Resound Community Choir after their illness made it not possible to continue their work as a music teacher for children. They are an active community member rising to meet whatever challenge comes our way from a true collectivist perspective. Francis is a queer activist and dreamer, multi dimensional artist, delightfully fun and playful, omg hands down what a babe. Their deep knowledge, their love, their care, and ability to bring people together and uplift us all is a priceless gift. They have done amazing things while bearing unthinkable pain, as a single parent without financial support.
This is the time for community and support networks far and wide to help dear Frankie and Lively recover from this current medical crisis and put them on the best path forward to manage what will be a life long condition. Francis is finally home from the hospital but they are needing round the clock care, ongoing physical and occupational therapy and access to more medical interventions. Clearly, Francis is unable to work at this time and that will be the case for quite awhile. Funds will go towards medical bills, specialist appointments and procedures, housing & all needs for Francis & Lively.
Francis has been actively shaping a better world through their many gifts the 20+ years I personally have had the honor to witness them and call them friend. Their deep care and unique and brilliant brain are deeply valuable. Let’s share this fundraiser far and wide, over and over, and invest in Francis & Lively’s ability to get through this current medical crisis and beyond!