Our mother, Marybeth was vibrant and full of life. Her light was evident when she entered a room and her upbeat personality was contageous. She fiercely loved her family, friends, vacations, home renovations, and grandpets. She, no doubt, shows that same love for her three grandchildren from heaven. It is difficult to identify how long our mother experienced and battled the early symptoms of this silent and devastating killer. She was an incredibly tough woman, rarely complaining and was more concerned about others than her own well-being. Her disorder may have progressed for weeks undetected. In November of 2017, our mother first identified minor vision issues. She was gone by February 2018. As our mother’s communication skills deteriorated in that short time, she reiterated two statements over-and-over again: “Never waste a minute” and “Never give up.”
We got involved with Strides for CJD to ensure her wishes, and those of many others in the future, are heard. Her contagious selflessness taught us to do what we can to ensure that no one must suffer through this alone and that someday we can rid the world of this terrible disorder. With every stride we take, we can still hear her on the sidelines cheering us on.
Since her passing in 2018, your generosty and love have allowed us to raise $15K for critical research and support for families suffering similar fates. We continue to be floored and eternally greatful for your support. Please consider joining us to walk on October 8, 2022 or donating to support our team.
The world was lucky to have such a great person and we are better for it.
Mark and Tina Helfferich
