As many of you know, Alys is undergoing a blood patch procedure to try to repair her spinal fluid leak. This is a huge step forward, but the most important part of making this procedure stick is strict rest. For the first few weeks, Alys needs to lie flat as much as possible to give her body the best chance to heal. That means no bending, lifting, twisting, stretching, or straining. To give her the best shot at a full recovery, we want to take every bit of physical strain off her shoulders so she can stay flat and focus on healing. We’re putting this page together to organize small tasks, quick house drop-ins, food gift cards, and basic errands. If you’re able to jump on a shift or help out, it will take a big burden off her! How You Can Help, as you’ll see on this page: 1. Quick Drop-Ins & Small Household Tasks: Because Alys can’t bend, twist, or lift anything, simple daily chores become impossible. We’re looking for local friends who can pop in quickly to help with tiny things around the house. What this looks like: Changing her bed sheets, giving the kitchen floor a quick sweep, or hunting down a lost cord under the couch so she doesn't have to bend down. The Vibe: Keep visits short and low-energy unless she asks you to hang out—the main goal is getting the task done so she can get right back to resting! 2. Groceries & Pharmacy Pick-Ups: Specific Grocery Runs: She may need specific packaged items or basic staples picked up so she doesn't have to leave the house or carry heavy bags. Pharmacy Pick-Ups: Grabbing prescriptions or recovery essentials as needed. Note: If you bring items inside, please leave them on a table or counter at waist height so she doesn't have to bend over to reach them! 3. Food: No Homemade Food: Alys has complex allergies and chemical sensitivities, so we are strictly avoiding homemade meals to keep her safe. UberEats / DoorDash Gift Cards: Sending a digital meal delivery card is the absolute best and safest way to feed her right now. It lets her order exactly what she knows is safe for her body without any risk of a reaction. 4. Out-of-Town & Long-Distance Support: If you aren't local, sending an UberEats card, an Instacart gift card, or just sending a sweet text (with zero expectation of a response!) is an incredible way to support her from afar. Thank you all so much for lifting Alys up while she goes through this next hurdle!
Important Thing to Keep in Mind: 1. Alys isn’t sure which days she’ll feel well enough to have visitors, even folks coming over to help. Please don’t drop by unannounced, and please be flexible if she asks for help another day instead. 2. Zero Bending for Alys! If you’re leaving packages, mail, or groceries for her, please don't leave them on the floor or porch ground. Place them on an outdoor table or indoor counter so she can reach them without leaning down.