My Story…
In Honor of My Dad, Tia Isabel, Tia Adriana and Uncle Fernando and So Many others in My Family….
In 2012, the year I lost my dad to Machado-Joseph Disease (MJD), also known as Ataxia Type 3, I met Dr. Schmahmann and his compassionate team at Massachusetts General Hospital. Their dedication to understanding and treating this devastating condition gave me hope when my family needed it most.
Since then, MJD has continued to affect my family in heartbreaking ways. I’ve lost two aunts and an uncle to this disease. Today, my brother and cousin’s are living with it, and other family members are also at risk. MJD is a rare, inherited neurological disorder that slowly takes away a person’s coordination, mobility, and independence. But there is research underway that could change the future.
Dr. Schmahmann and his team at MGH are leading the charge in MJD and cerebellar ataxia research. They’ve been a lifeline for my family—and for many others facing the same uncertain path.
I’m asking for your help to support their vital work. Every donation, no matter the size, brings us closer to better treatments, greater understanding, and one day, a cure.
Let’s raise funds. Let’s raise awareness. Let’s raise hope—for my family, and for families everywhere.
Thank you and love to you all for all your support! Xoxoxo
Donate to help Bela raise money for The 2025 ASICS Falmouth Road Race’s fundraising campaign.
Recent donors
Donation date | Donor name | Donation amount |
---|---|---|
Aug 17 | Nancy and Paul Medeiros | $109.85 |
Aug 14 | Anonymous | Undisclosed amount |
Jul 03 | Ann Nedell | Undisclosed amount |
Jun 15 | Carmine & Kelly | $109.85 |
Jun 15 | Jeff Camara | $109.85 |
Jun 11 | Jax | $55.35 |
Jun 07 | Richard & Adele Collins | $109.85 |
Jun 05 | Bill Lima | $273.35 |
Jun 05 | Richard Andrade | $109.85 |
Jun 03 | Anonymous | $55.35 |