Helen was diagnosed with scleroderma in 2000.  It was a frightening and shocking diagnosis.  But Helen’s amazing spirit prevailed and, along with the support of her family and many friends, she assembled a truly amazing team of doctors, researchers, and clinicians to manage the illness.  She had many, many challenging times for sure, including an additional diagnosis of pulmonary hypertension about ten years after her scleroderma diagnosis.

 

Helen was thankful to the Scleroderma Foundation for assisting her to navigate the medical system and providing the opportunity to meet other patients.  Together, they learned how to manage the disease and how to stay positive and support each other.  She also knew that not every scleroderma patient and their family was as lucky.  She knew much work needed to be done.  It was at her first support group meeting that Helen met Josephine Battyany and Josephine asked her to help support and grow the Scleroderma Foundation.  

 

And did she ever.

 

With her extraordinary family and group of friends at her side always, Helen committed to raising funds for the Foundation, providing support to patients and their families, and expanding community awareness of the disease.  She grew a small social gathering of friends and family into our Key to A Cure Annual Gala.  She served as Gala co-chair since its beginning and for the past 13 years, she served as a member of the Southern California Chapter Board of Directors, including six years as Vice President.

 

Helen’s commitments accomplished much to improve the lives of those with this dreaded disease – but there is still much to be done.

 

To honor the memory of our cherished friend, The Helen Greenburg Memorial Fund is being established to further her commitment and devotion to supporting the Foundation.  Gifts and donations to the Fund will support our patient services programs.  We will treasure and remember our beloved friend and her dedication to making a difference in the lives of those affected by scleroderma.  We hope you will consider a gift in her memory.  

 

Many thanks for your support -- and don't forget to forward this to anyone who you think might want to donate too!