We can honestly say this is the most difficult, soul-crushing message we have ever had to write. It’s humiliating and embarrassing to have to ask family, friends and folks we don’t even know to help us, but this involves Mitch’s declining health and vital medical care.

After having to close our brick and mortar business in July of last year (2023), sales from our website have been essentially non-existent and we find ourselves in need.

It is time for us to travel to Kansas City to see Mitch’s neurologist at KU Medical Center for appointments regarding his Parkinson’s Disease. These mandatory visits happen once or twice each year. We always schedule these appointments well in advance so we can save the money necessary to go. However, this time, due to our failing business, we have been unable to save or pull together any funds for this trip.

Mitch is 59. For over 20 years he has contended with Young Onset Parkinsons Disease. (the same disease that Michael J. Fox has) It is a progressive neurological disease that affects every part of his mind and body.

PD is a horrible thief and over the years it has robbed us of homes, jobs, the ability to travel, socializing with friends, our savings, and so many other things that we have loved and cherished. As it consumes the patient and their caregiving family, many of life’s essentials go by the wayside.

Some of the things that Mitch deals with on a daily basis include difficulties standing and staying upright, walking, freezing gait, severe chronic pain in his muscles and bones, stumbling and falling, loss of appetite, choking, short term memory, severe fatigue, depression, anxiety, bowel issues -- normal bodily functions that one takes for granted until they no longer occur without effort. With PD, the patient has to stop and think about every single thing they do before doing it. Normal reflexes and the concept of “operating on autopilot” are no longer an ability.

Our one silver lining is that we have an excellent Movement Disorder Specialist/Neurologist (he is a leading, renowned expert in the US regarding Parkinson’s Disease) and care team at KU Med in KC, MO. They have kept Mitch functional and mobile for years and are always adjusting his care to keep pace with new treatments and medicines.

At least once each year we have to go to KC for a thorough physical exam, onsite treatments and medications, research, etc. In addition to the normal annual appointment, we have additional appointments on this trip to discuss surgical and other treatment options.

Any funds raised here will help us cover travel expenses for these appointments, including fuel, lodging and meals and incurred medical charges and co-pays over a 6-day period as we take appointments with the doctors, surgeon, and their care teams.

We humbly ask for your help with these expenses. There are no words to adequately express just how grateful we are for your kindness, generosity and compassion. Please let us know if you have any questions.

With gratitude and appreciation,

Mitchell and Judy Near