Dear Friends and Family,

Another milestone has come around in my very complicated and rewarding life.  In 2011 I will celebrate my 20 year working relationship with MGA of WPA.  That's right, after many years of volunteerism I finally joined the staff to share my experiences and special skills to help other people coping with this incurable muscle weakening disorder.  They even gave me my own office, computer, and a title!  My position as Administrative Coordinator means that I do everything but wash windows. LOL

Even though we are a small nonprofit this organization has many great services.  We advocate for our patients, conduct a weekly treatment center with knowledgable physicians, are committed to social services, developed a quarterly newsletter and a webpage (www.mgawpa.org) , plus hold fundraising events to generate both funds and needed public awareness of this little known disorder.

Seriously though, without the help and support  from those affiliated with MGA I would not be here today.  My commitment to MGA more than matches their commitment to me and other patients.  I appreciate them and the work that they do.

So now I'm asking for your help.  In 2011 MGA will no longer receive United Way monies, so to continue our mission to help those that need our services we ask you to give of yourselves.  In my honor, after 44 years of coping with this incurable illness and its limitations and 20 years of commited service to other patients, please consider giving to the Myasthenia Gravis Association of Western PA.

As an aside, did you know that this year Americans are expected to spend $24 billion on gift cards alone this holiday season? That's not giving, that's exchanging. Please help me bring the spirit of giving back to my holidays!  If you plan to donate to a charitable cause for any reason, please think of MGA and my 20 years of committed service to the many people suffering with this diagnosis.

Please consider making a donation to my personal fundraising page. This holiday season, I am happy to dedicate my holiday giving to this important cause and hope that you will join me!

Happy Holidays!