On June 27, 2023, we received the worst news imaginable. My husband Ali Omer was diagnosed with ALS at the age of 37. Since then our lives have come to a stop.

Hi, we are Ali's family, my name is Ruperi Shah and our son Cairo Omer. We are raising urgent funds for his treatment and medical expenses.

Over the past few years, our family has overcome many difficult challenges. In 2021 Cairo was born 3 months premature and undeveloped, weighing only 1lb 10oz. He was also born with cleft lip and palate and we were terrified and heartbroken. He went through numerous surgeries for various health complications. Today, thanks to God, Cairo is thriving and doing well. The entire pregnancy and delivery process was traumatic for our family, and till this day I am still recovering. Despite these difficult times Ali stood strong beside us and has been an amazing, caring and loving father and husband.

Just when we thought our lives were turning to some normalcy, we were struck with a devastating diagnosis. Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig's Disease, is a rare neurological condition that affects motor neurons - the nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord that control voluntary muscle movement. The average life expectancy is 2-5 years after the onset of the disease. ALS has no cure and no effective treatment to reverse its progression, while causes are also unknown.

ALS is a type of motor neuron disease. As motor neurons degenerate and die, they stop sending messages to the muscles, which causes the muscles to weaken and waste away. Eventually, the brain loses its ability to initiate and control voluntary movements. As the disease progresses, patients often rely on motorized wheelchairs and other medical equipment to survive.

Our family has been through tremendous stress in the months leading up to Ali’s diagnosis. Ali is a fighter with immense strength and perseverance that has been the rock to our family. Due to his condition, Ali has been on leave of absence from work.

Although our family remains optimistic, we turn to each of you and ask for your assistance in battling this devastating disease as Ali’s symptoms progress. Currently, the most promising treatment option comes in the form of stem cell therapy. Stem cell therapy capabilities are limited within the US due to laws and regulations, however countries including Japan, South Korea, India and Mexico are leading the charge. Everything is considered out of pocket and the cost typically runs between 20-30K USD, which includes multiple visits. Funds raised will also help with medical expenses and equipment.

We believe with the right resources we can slow down the progression and hopefully try to stop the disease. Any information gained with his treatments will also help many other ALS patients. We ask that you support us in any amount you can but most importantly that you keep Ali in your prayers. We thank you in advance for your support and generosity. God Bless.