Support John Pritchard: donate to MSA research

Hi Friends and Family!

*johnny is alive and fighting hard*

For those who are unaware, my father (my best friend) has been diagnosed with Multiple System Atrophy (MSA).

If you don’t know what this diagnosis means…MSA is a rare, degenerative neurological disorder affecting the body's involuntary (autonomic) functions, including blood pressure, and motor control. It has many similar attributes to Parkinson’s and ALS.

As for my dad, he was first diagnosed with Parkinson’s due to the symptoms he was displaying early on. More recently he has shown many new symptoms some including very low blood pressure, acting out dreams and dizziness. These changes have in turn changed his diagnosis to one that was unknown to my family. As we navigate this, it has become apparent that many people, including doctors and nurses, are not aware of what MSA is.

All these new symptoms have really put life and love into new perspective for us as a family. Not only is this extremely hard for family and friends, but it has been most detrimental to him. He is a stubborn man with a lot of pride… so one can imagine that these drastic changes (which have happened so fast) are a struggle for him mentally, emotionally and physically. We have also witnessed a deep deep sense of love and appreciation from him during this time. He is the bravest and strongest human I’ll ever know and I know I speak for everyone who knows him that we love him dearly.

I write this post to bring awareness to Multiple Systems Atrophy. For my family and to others that are enduring a similar reality.

I have also included a Go Fund Me page. Our plan is to raise money and awareness of Multiple System Atrophy and to donate proceeds to the MSA coalition. Their goal is to improve quality of life for the multiple system atrophy community by expanding access to care and support while advancing research toward treatment and a cure. We also want some of the proceeds to go towards creating a bench or plaque to put at the Orillia Rotary lacrosse fields where he’s spent many days showing his love for the sport and helping young athletes.

Whether it’s sharing this post, making a donation or sending positive vibes to Johnny, my family and I so deeply appreciate it.