Hope for Jamie

James "Jamie" Odom is 47 years old. He worked as a mechanic until he physically was unable to do so. Jamie is the father of three children, Matthew (22), Nathan (19) and Marissa (15). He was diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) - also known as Lou Gehrig's Disease in 2012 when he started having communication deficits. Since then his physical abilities have declined significantly. He relies on a walker and leg braces for short distance mobility and a wheelchair for covering longer distances. He is learning to use a communication device, which will speak for him, as his communication is deteriorating. Over the past 2 months, Jamie's fine motor skills have decreased drastically leaving him with very little thumb movement. Jamie has recently met with physicians in Ocean Springs, MS who have deemed him a candidate for stem cell treatment. Stem cell treatment has been proven to reverse effects of ALS in many patients but at this time is not covered by insurance. Today (5/1/2014) Jamie told me of the news using his communication device; as I am unable to make all of his words out. He, through his device, stated that he would "begin treatment when he was able to get enough money." It is approximately $10,000 for the initial treatment and will be split in half for following treatments (i.e. $5,000 for second). It is not known how many treatments he will need but I think this will get him going in the right direction. There is no way to know for certain if this treatment will work for Jamie as it has for others, but this treatment is hope for a more normal life.  As he informed me today there was a glimse of hope in his eyes. As a friend of Jamie's, I would love nothing more than to give him that hope. A hope that he can interact more with his children, family and friends. A hope that he can regain movement and strength in his body - instead of losing what little he has left. THANKS IN ADVANCE. GOD BLESS YOU.