Kring

A fundraiser will be held at Jethro’s to benefit a Roaring Spring resident battling a rare medical diagnosis.

Lindsey Kring, 32, was diagnosed with chronic inflammatory response syndrome, known as CIRS, in 2015. She continued to work as a civil engineer until 2023, as the disease weakened her body and made her susceptible to life-threatening infections.

Essential medical costs, including IV infusion therapy, specialist appointments and home deep cleanings to maintain safe air quality, aren’t covered by Kring’s insurance. With help from the national nonprofit Help Hope Live, donations to cover out-of-pocket medical costs can be made at her fundraiser.

As of Tuesday afternoon, $670 has been raised on Help Hope Live’s campaign page.

The in-person fundraiser is scheduled for 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. today, May 27, which also happens to be Kring’s birthday.

“Her conditions have progressively worsened, while healing may be possible upon Lindsey receiving the necessary resources for intensive treatments — much of it is not covered by insurance,” the campaign page states.

She is also a writer, poet, musician and nature-lover who remains in touch with her creative side despite her diagnosis.

Help Hope Live’s content manager, Emily Progin, described Kring as a fabulous individual who has been fighting a rare disease for over a decade. So she said that Kring will feel less alone in her fight against the rare medical disease after seeing everyone attend her fundraiser.

“She needs that connection, that folks are with her, and that she’s not alone in this battle she’s been fighting for so long,” Progin said.

Kring emphasized that every donated dollar counts and can make a difference.

“I am amazed at how much a small group of people can make such a big impact,” she said. “Every little bit helps so much. You are helping me to receive life-saving care.”

If you go

What: Lindsey Kring’s birthday fundraiser

When: 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. today, May 27

Where: Jethro’s, 417 Parkview Lane, Altoona

Donations: Ask a server to have a portion of your meal cost donated to Help Hope Live in honor of Kring. Donations can also be made online at https://helphopelive.org/campaign/25267/.