Diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis at 24, Bethany Berk always thought she would be able to beat the crippling disease.
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She tried everything, from medications to lifestyle changes and natural therapies, and for 10 years, they kept her MS in check.
But recently, just before her 34th birthday, that all changed, sparking a fundraising effort in a bid to send the Bega mother-of-two to Russia for lifesaving medical treatment.
“Just before my 34th birthday, I woke up, jumped out of bed and promptly fell over – my legs would not support me,” Bethany said on her fundraising page.
“In the weeks following, I was forced to look at my declining health.
“My memory and body have started to let me down and for the first time in my life, I am honestly scared.”
Encouraged by her family, Bethany decided to undergo chemotherapy and hematopoietic stem cell transplantation.
But Australian doctors won’t perform the treatment, and Bethany now needs $60,000 to make the trip to Russia.
“Hopefully, one day, it will be readily available in our own backyard, if not for me, for the others of us in Australia,” she said
“It will give me a brand new immune system.
“I am ready to lose my hair and to be away from my family for the time it takes.
“I’m ready to be able to walk with [husband] Paul and our children forever.
“I have bared my soul, told my truths and am swallowing my pride to ask for your help.
“Please support me and my divine family.”
Touched by Bethany’s story, the Nethercote community has been busily raising awareness of her situation.
Posters have been stuck up around the town, and when Robyn Stewart came across them, she knew she had to do something to help.
To aid Bethany’s cause, Robyn has organised a harmonic sound workshop at Nethercote Hall on Sunday, November 30.
Entry is by donation, with all proceeds to be put towards the fundraiser.
Robyn will teach harmonic toning – the art of making vowel sounds at the back of the throat, while performer, presenter and vocal coach Mandy Siegel will hold group singing lessons.
“I met Beth a few weeks ago and she’s a really beautiful lady,” Robyn said.
“The Nethercote community is really behind her and the posters are everywhere – Karen Lott has also put them up at Sprout café, which is where I first came across Beth’s story.
“The workshop should be a really fun day – toning is not singing, so anyone who says they can’t sing has no excuse.
“It’s about discovering our own unique sacred sound, and creating light and nutrition for mind, body and spirit.”
Robyn said a group from Mallacoota have already told her they will be making the trip, while several people in Merimbula also expressed interest.
Guests are asked to arrive at 9.30am for a 10am start, with the group singing lesson to round out the day, which will finish at 3pm.
Tea, coffee and afternoon tea will be provided, but guests will need to supply their own lunch.
To donate to Bethany’s fundraiser, click here.