Hello!
My name is Jazmin Carothers, and I am fundraising in honor of my mother, Loyce Melodee Duke. My mommy, Melodee, was diagnosed with Type II Spinocerebellar Ataxia when I was two years old, and despite facing the daunting diagnosis with bravery, her disease still took a major toll on our lives. My mom was a social butterfly who enjoyed singing, hiking, dancing, traveling, and meeting new people, but this disease robbed her of all of that. By the time I was 16, she was wheelchair bound and could no longer speak clearly. Despite these limitations, she was a wonderful mom. When she couldn't speak, she would listen. When she couldn't be physically present, she would give what she could financially, and she always made sure I felt loved.

She had so much light & joy in her beautiful spirit, but that light was slowly extinguished over the 22 years she fought this disease. She fought for 22 years so she could see me grow up. I am grateful to have had that time with her, but selfishly, I will always wish we had more. 24 years is not long enough to have your best friend and biggest cheerleader by your side.

Please help me spare other families the heartache we experienced living with Ataxia, and now suffer every day living without my mom. By donating to this fundraiser, you will be supporting the efforts to find a cure for this devastating disease.

Thank you for your time & support.

-With Love & Gratitude Jazmin & Melodee