An online fundraiser for island resident Criss Fournier has been set up and has raised more than $10,000 so far.

Criss, a longtime islander, was diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) in May after a period of failing health. ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, is a debilitating, progressive and fatal neurological disease that causes muscle weakness and paralysis.

Mondi Fournier, Criss’s daughter, established a GoFundMe account late last month, with a goal of reaching $10,000, to help with necessary medical care. On Monday, donations had reached $10,522.

“Amazing. It is so amazing how many people have contributed,” Mondi said. “People have come right out of the wood- work.”

Mondi, in her 20s, returned to Vashon to  live with Criss and care for her. She works full time, she said, but her income does not come close to paying for the cost of care that Criss needs. Currently, full-time care is required and is in place during the day, topping out at more than $3,000 per month. Mondi is there at night, she said, but more skilled care will likely be needed as the illness progresses.

Given the high expenses involved and the success of the fundraising effort so far, Mondi said that she will continue with GoFundMe and post updates on how Criss is doing.

Aside from money to pay for caregiving and other medical expenses, Mondi said they do not need any other assistance right now, except she would like her mom to have her friends around her more.

“I am working on getting her friend connection stronger,” Mondi said, noting that Criss has many new people around her, but more old friends would be nice too.

Like her daughter, Criss appreciates the recent financial support.

“She is really grateful for it,” Mondi said. “It is keeping her at home, which is where she wants to be.”

To donate or for more information, see gofundme.com/crissfournier.