McLennan group launches fundraiser for local woman
Kevin Laliberte
Express Staff
Imagine being stranded in the middle of the ocean with people around you holding life preservers, but nobody can reach you.
It's the same everyday feeling of helplessness for McLennan resident Teresa Woo, who has battled Multiple Sclerosis for 18 long and emotionally-draining years.
But there is hope for Woo. And it's coming in the form of a community life preserver, called "The Friends of Teresa".
The community fundraising group was recently established in McLennan by local resident and close friend Monica Bisley.
She launched the group last month in an effort to help raise funds for Woo.
"We are a community-based group which is committed to raising funds to send Teresa to the Seattle Vascular Centre for testing and treatment to alleviate the symptoms she suffers due to Multiple Sclerosis," Bisley explains.
Woo was diagnosed with MS 18 years ago and is now in her early 40's.
She hopes to receive the Chronic Cerebrospinal Venous Insufficiency Treatment from the US-based clinic through the support of local community donations.
Bisley says the cost for testing and treatment in Seattle is estimated at $7,000 US, combined with an additional expense of $3,000 for travel expense for her and a companion.
"It's a day procedure, but it is recommended she remain in the vicinity for a night following the treatment," says Bisley, adding that the treatment has achieved a high degree of success among many other Canadians afflicted with MS.
And the group is now firmly focussed on ensuring Woo also receives that same opportunity.
"Teresa is a very special member of our community and a very dear friend of mine," says Bisley, who has first-hand knowledge about the often debilating affects MS.
"My sister died from MS, but I now have Teresa as my Canadian sister. She is definitely a special woman who is worthy of our help."
For Woo, the healing process will begin to unfold as early as Oct. 27 – the date of a jewelry party fundraiser by JB Designs (Monica's daughter, Joanna Bisley) in McLennan.
The event, which is still in the preliminary planning stages, will see a portion of all proceeds raised going towards Teresa's treatment in Seattle.
A Community Spirit account has also been set up in her name at ATB Financial in McLennan for anyone wishing to make a generous donation.
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