Gary & Michelle Fletscher

Gary and Michelle Fletscher have been attending Hillside for many years, and have been a part of the Joint Heirs Class.  They have two teenage boys, Joseph (sophomore) and Matthew (7th grade), who are very busy with school and active in Hillside's youth groups.  Gary is dealing with some long-term health issues which are overwhelming, and the family could use our help right now.  

A few years ago, Gary began experiencing balance problems and other neurological symptoms.  As these progressed, the Fletschers searched for answers, and Gary was diagnosed with Multiple System Atrophy.  MSA is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by symptoms of autonomic nervous system failure, such as fainting spells and motor control symptoms including tremor, rigidity, and loss of muscle coordination.  MSA affects both men and women primarily in their fifties.  While there is no cure for MSA, there are treatments available to help people cope with some of its more disabling symptoms.  At this point, the disease has affected Gary's ability to walk, and he must use a walker at all times.  Plus, he has limited energy and tires easily, cannot drive at all, and is experiencing many other limitations.  Michelle works full-time, in addition to caring for her husband and sons.  She is now getting home from work late (after 7 pm), because she needs to get Gary ready for the day, and the boys ready for school, before she can leave for work.

Gary and Michelle and their sons trust that God knows the future, as they turn down a new path in life that is filled with challenges.  They are thankful for their community of family and friends, co-workers, and church members, those who have supported them along the way.  Since Gary's condition is progressive, their needs will continue to increase.  At this time, they would appreciate meals twice a week to start with, as they deal with this new "normal," as well as rides to and from his therapy sessions.   Thank you for any help that you can provide by volunteering in the open tasks on the calendar.