A fundraiser has been launched for a Laois woman living in Australia who has been diagnosed with multiple sclerosis.
Annmarie Gallagher, who is from Portarlington, has been living in Sydney for the last three years.
Annmarie is a care worker and according to her cousin Christina Gallagher, she tried to continue to work after her diagnosis but now is no longer able to do so.
According to Christina, being so far away from home is taking its toll on Annmarie but she is not well enough currently to be able to fly back to Ireland.
She explained: “Anyone that knows Annmarie will know how much of a big heart she has and how she lives life with a very positive mindset.
“Annmarie is a care worker and has tried to carry on working but she just isn’t able.
“Since her diagnosis, Annmarie has tried to remain positive and carry on being independent but it’s taking it’s toll on her mental and physical well being making daily tasks near impossible.
“Being so far away from home with little family is very stressful for her at the minute and our main aim is to build her up enough strength to get her home to Ireland to her family and a bigger support system.”
The family’s immediate concern is the cost of her current medical fees which are more than $3,000 per month.
Christina said: “Right now Annmarie is unable to fly as her body is in extreme pain most days.
“Australia has an amazing healthcare system but unfortunately Annmarie is on a temporary visa and this care comes at a high cost.
“Annmarie needs to see her neurologist, GP, physio therapist, MRI scans, blood tests and also a psychologist. Her medication alone is going to cost $3000 a month.”
The long term plan is to get Annmarie home, but for now, any help will be greatly appreciated by her family.
Christine said: “Any help towards these costs would take alot of stress away for Annmarie.
“The price of a coffee and a share can go along way. Please help if you can so Annmarie can concentrate on rest and deal with her diagnosis.
“Any donations are greatly appreciated from Annmarie and her family.”
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