In Sept 2024, at 17, my youngest brother Phoenix was diagnosed with Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy; a genetic heart condition in which the heart muscle becomes thicker than normal. This thickening can make the heart stiffer and harder to pump blood effectively, especially during exercise. He's had extensive testing done over the last two years, and in November 2025 a Myocardial Bridge was discovered; a congenital condition where a coronary artery tunnels through heart muscle, which can compress the artery during heart contractions, causing pain and sometimes reducing blood flow. There are medications that can sometimes help with the chest pain, shortness of breath, and severe fatigue Phoenix experiences on a daily basis, but he was unable to tolerate them.

It has been a thief of sorts for my brother. Being told you can't do things because of this. Which let's be honest, no one likes being told they can't do something. Especially when it's something you love. No longer being able to really do the things he loves and enjoys without pain or discomfort. Not being able to do even the simplest tasks without pain. As his sister and big supporter of his, it's heartbreaking.

So, this September he, along with our mom, Laina Shaffer, and his dad, Teddy Shaffer, will travel from their home in Washington State down to Stanford Medical Center in California for his first heart surgery, Myocardial Bridge Unroofing

Our mom recently had to resign from her job at Providence Centralia after 9 years in order to take care of him. Phoenix dad works at the Nippon plant in Longview, WA; he is working on the skeleton crew right now and will have to take time off to travel to California. Ted will be able to fly home a few days after the surgery, but my mom and brother will need to stay down there for a couple of weeks until he's recovered. This means a hotel for a about 3 weeks or so, food, gas & anything else they require while down there.

With only one income, this makes things difficult. So, we are taking a chance and reaching out for help. If you know me or my family, then you know we aren't ones to repeatedly ask for handouts or help. It's outside the proverbial comfort zone. However, there comes a time when you simply can't do it on your own. This is one of those times.

I know everyone says this, and I mean this, please do not feel obligated to give a lot or any money. Yes, we are asking for it, but we know that times are hard. Anything anyone can offer is appreciated and we are grateful. Whether you know of a cost friendly place to stay in Palo Alto, CA for 3 weeks, or things to do that can help ease recovery. Even just sharing this and keeping my brother in your thoughts and sending all the good vibes. :)

Thank you all and have a great day :)

Sincerely,

Destynie