Special to the Reporter/Deb Woodbery

HELENA–What is polka-dotted and sprinkled all over with lots of fun, food and entertainment? The answer is the Many Infinities, Inc., Polka Dot Party Benefit held Saturday, Feb. 13, at Helena’s Coal Yard Bar and Grill.

This nonprofit organization helps those with autoimmunity and autoimmune diseases and guests were rocked by the versatile Point of View band while tasting the Coal Yard’s hors d’ oeuvres and wine that was provided.

The evening was entertaining and educational as guests in attendance signed up for the silent auction to raise money with the opportunity to meet new friends.

The event featured Comedienne JOY the Queen of Clean as emcee and the keynote speaker was Dr. Farah Sultan, the 2016 Autoimmune Live Award recipient who partners with Many Infinities, Inc., through Vitalogy Wellness in Birmingham.

Deven Woods, founder and director of Many Infinities, Inc., said she founded the organization as a way to support and share information for those affected by autoimmune diseases. Woods had to leave her job due to health-related autoimmune illness and was determined to turn it into something positive by helping and encouraging others.

“Most patients with autoimmune diseases hide to survive,” said Woods. “I want to encourage them to do more than survive daily, but to live boldly and confidently, in spite of circumstances. We are so grateful to the generous donors and participants who made this benefit successful.”

Autoimmune diseases have been called the “silent killer.” Symptoms range from simple breathing problems, unusual bruising and spots, to extreme joint paint, fatigue and more. The extensive number of diseases are predisposed by DNA and are activated by emotional or physical stress, environmental stimuli or infection.

Since last year, new partnerships have been formed creating upcoming events to help autoimmune sufferers and their families.

March is Autoimmune Disease Month and Many Infinities has a goal of raising $20,000. These funds will go toward the Infinitely You workshop for patients and their families and the Ruby L. Butler Patient Assistance Program, which helps with needs that are not covered by insurance.

Another partner offers free Pilates monthly classes at Aero Joe Pilates Studio. For the very first time on Saturday, March 19, Woods said they would be partnering with Disability Rights and Resources with an Infinitely You Health and Wellness free workshop at the YMCA in Alabaster at 9 a.m.

For more information about autoimmune diseases, future events or to donate or volunteer your time, call 258-0222 or visit Manyinfinities.org.