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In Loving Memory of Patricia Portley
The Sickle Cell Association of Austin – Marc Thomas Foundation began in
1997 as a small support group with three individuals; Marc Thomas, Linda
Thomas, and Patricia Schuster. Both Marc and Patricia suffered from sickle
cell disease. Patricia Schuster was on dialysis, legal blind, and had suffered
strokes as a result of this debilitating and life threatening blood disease.
Patricia’s condition never stopped her from raising community awareness
about sickle cell disease. With Patricia’s help and support, the small support
group became a viable and essential nonprofit organization serving families in
the Austin area affected by sickle cell disease. Patricia addressed and urged
the Austin City Council for support and funding for the Sickle Cell Association
of Austin – Marc Thomas Foundation. She was also an active board member
and awareness specialist. She worked tirelessly helping to improve the quality
of life for all persons living with sickle cell disease. Patricia was also a gifted
singer. She would sing “Because He Lives” at every event; reminding those
suffering from sickle cell disease that they could face tomorrow. Patricia was
a remarkable, kind, and giving person. A true Christian, and friend, she was
also the doting and proud mother of a beautiful daughter Chyneice. Patricia
also credited her caring parents Mr. and Mrs. Bailey for their support and love.
Patricia passed away November 2004 at the age of 33. The love and life
Patricia leaves behind will be remembered and treasured always.
.
The Sickle Cell Association of Austin – Marc Thomas Foundation began in
1997 as a small support group with three individuals; Marc Thomas, Linda
Thomas, and Patricia Schuster. Both Marc and Patricia suffered from sickle
cell disease. Patricia Schuster was on dialysis, legal blind, and had suffered
strokes as a result of this debilitating and life threatening blood disease.
Patricia’s condition never stopped her from raising community awareness
about sickle cell disease. With Patricia’s help and support, the small support
group became a viable and essential nonprofit organization serving families in
the Austin area affected by sickle cell disease. Patricia addressed and urged
the Austin City Council for support and funding for the Sickle Cell Association
of Austin – Marc Thomas Foundation. She was also an active board member
and awareness specialist. She worked tirelessly helping to improve the quality
of life for all persons living with sickle cell disease. Patricia was also a gifted
singer. She would sing “Because He Lives” at every event; reminding those
suffering from sickle cell disease that they could face tomorrow. Patricia was
a remarkable, kind, and giving person. A true Christian, and friend, she was
also the doting and proud mother of a beautiful daughter Chyneice. Patricia
also credited her caring parents Mr. and Mrs. Bailey for their support and love.
Patricia passed away November 2004 at the age of 33. The love and life
Patricia leaves behind will be remembered and treasured always.
.
