Can you help: 'Lighting the Way for Lucia' fundraiser set

“Light the Way for Lucia,” a fundraiser for Lucia Spiritosanto, will take place Sunday, Nov. 23, at the Evening Star, 8810 Niagara Falls Blvd., Niagara Falls. The event begins with a basket raffle at 1 p.m., and continues with all-ages music from 2-8 p.m. The benefit also will include food and a 50/50 drawing.

Lucia’s friends and family are coming together to host “Lighting the Way” to support Lucia on her journey of healing and recovery.

On Aug. 1, 2024, Lucia suffered an occipital lobe ischemic stroke (a blood clot in the brain) while at work. The stroke caused her to lose the left field of vision in both eyes, profoundly changing her daily life. Neurologists placed her in vision therapy, but progress has been limited so far. She is unable to drive, must rely on others for transportation, and needs assistance with daily tasks such as shopping, cooking, and home maintenance.

Lucia will soon begin treatment with a neuro-optometrist who specializes in stroke recovery. Through specialized glasses and vision training, there is hope her brain can relearn to detect objects in her missing visual field. This could allow Lucia to regain independence, possibly return to her work as a graphic designer – she has worked for the Niagara County Tribune/Sentinel • Island Dispatch, designing ads for many local businesses – and restore a sense of normalcy to her life.

In addition to these challenges, Lucia is a devoted mother of four and grandmother of four, who also is grieving the loss of her fiancé just one year prior to her stroke. Despite these hardships, she continues to show strength and determination, holding onto hope for brighter days.

Your support can make a lasting impact on easing the financial burden of medical care, therapy costs, and lost income. Every contribution, no matter how large or small, will help Lucia focus on her health and healing journey.

For more information, call 716-940-5391.