Stem Cells For Ryker
We are raising money for stem cell treatment for our son Ryker.
Ryker was born in Anchorage, Alaska in June of 2008. He spent his first week of life in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). A few weeks later Ryker was diagnosed with cerebral palsy and our lives took a dramatic turn.
Cerebral Palsy is a term used to describe the effects of brain damage at or before birth. Ryker's form of CP makes it difficult for him to walk, grasp and hold objects, chew, swallow, and speak. At this time there is no absolute cure for CP. The standard treatment is intensive physical, occupational, and speech therapy that may go on for most of his life. Currently, Ryker has between 4-6 therapy sessions per week that Amber and I take turns attending.
There is hope! Since 2008 there have been some major breakthroughs for the treatment of CP with stem cells. Currently the global leader in research and application of stem cell medicine is China. The clinic that Ryker has been accepted to is called Tiantan Puhua Hospital in Beijing. Here is a link: http://www.stemcellspuhua.com
After reviewing Ryker's records and seeing videos of his therapy sessions, the head neurologist of the hospital has told me that Ryker is an excellent candidate for treatment. Over a one month period, his treatment plan includes 5 neuro stem cell transplants (obtained from umbilical cord blood), daily IV and oral medications, and intensive therapy sessions.
The costs involved are more than we can handle, but we can't live with passing up a chance to permanently help him while he's at an age where it means the most for his future development. That is why we are asking for your help.
Any donation will get us closer to his treatment, and please spread this message to your friends, family, and social networking groups.
There are three ways to contribute to Ryker\'s stem cell fund. Listed in order of increasing service fees which are deducted from contributions:
1) Directly into Credit Union 1
3) Credit Card Via PayPal, no Paypal account needed. Just click the \"continue\" link above the credit card logos.
4) Via this website.
We can't thank you enough for your support.
Joe Riggs
Amber Riggs
Ryker Riggs
