Kick Kristen's MS

My sister, Kristen, is a young mother with a husband and 3 kids. She has devoted her life to serving others as a nurse and mother. 

When she turned 31 life changed dramatically. She started experiencing unexplained burning sensations in her legs. A few conversations with co-workers confirmed that MS may be a possibility. After a couple tests the diagnosis was official. Kristen had Multiple Sclerosis. 

Over the last 4 years she has tried several different medications, but none are holding back the disease effectively. She has had 4 relapses with more and more symptoms impacting her physical function and quality of life. 

Kristen was recommended for a stem cell transplant at Northwestern University in Chicago. This would give the hope that her MS would go into permanent remission.

Schedule for transplant:

First Trip (End of Jan - 3 Nights): Pre-Testing 
Second Trip (Beginning of Feb - 10 Days): Start Chemo and Stem Cell Harvest
Third Trip (April - 20 Days):  Chemo and Stem Cell Transplant

Help Kristen Kick MS by supporting them financially. Our goal is to help them through $20,000 to cover the out-of-pocket expenses.

Their insurance has approved her for the Study and will pay for a majority of the costs. However, they anticipate significant out of pocket expenses with travel, hotels, food, deductible, at least 4-5 months of lost income, and added childcare expenses through three or four trips to Chicago.

For more ways to help or if you have questions feel free to contact:
Jenna Hoff (Sister)
Mike Van Hofwegen (Brother)
Mert or Lin Van Hofwegen (Parents)