Fundraisers being held for Fall River woman who is now nonverbal due to rare disease

A Fall River woman’s story is being shared in hopes that others will pray for her and if able, donate for her care.

According to those who know her, 28-year-old Cheyanne Moniz has had epilepsy since she was 5 years old. At age 14 she was diagnosed with a rare brain disease called Rasmussen encephalitis. Only 500 people have this disease in the world. Rasmussen encephalitis is a rare progressive autoimmune neurological disease that causes frequent and severe focal seizures, it also causes progressive neurological decline.

During this time Cheyanne requires full time care. She was released home from the hospital on July 10th, after only being home for 4 months out of this past year. The other 8 months she spent in the hospital.

Cheyanne’s mom, Kimberly Olivera has to be with Cheyanne because she is no longer verbal.

Fundraisers are being held to raise funds for the family to support Cheyenne’s medical needs such as funds for a ramp for her wheelchair, medications, medical supplies that are not covered, gas for transportation back and forth to Boston, home expenses, and parking for being at the hospital for long periods of time with Cheyanne.

They are taking donations through Venmo @CHAD-OLIVEIRA-2

There is also a GoFundMe fundraiser.

Lastly, a fundraiser buffet is being held on September 21st from 2:00 p.m.-6:00 p.m. at 4500 North Main Street (Elks Club) in Fall River. The event will include raffle prizes and a DJ. There will be a bar and baked goods for purchase. Tickets will be sold at the door for $25 or you can purchase them through Kristy Daniels, Chad Olivera, or Tara Souza.