Hi! My name is Michele, and I have been diagnosed with relapsing multiple sclerosis since 2010. It's a progressive, incurable autoimmune disease. My overactive immune system leaves scars on my brain, causing problems with balance, hand-eye coordination, and dizziness, along with cognitive issues such as short attention span, impaired short-term memory, brain fog, processing speed, etc., and debilitating fatigue. Some days I sleep up to 19 hours, and I have difficulties keeping up with household tasks. I usually can stand and walk without a mobility aid, but not for very far or very long. Sometimes a cane or rollator is a necessity. I've missed a lot of time with family and friends, and I'm missing out on watching the tiny humans in my life grow up. Diet changes and exercise have made little difference.

I've tried several disease modifying treatments (DMT), but they only slow the progression of the disease, not repair damage or restore function. The side effects of all of them have been rough for me.

Luckily, I've been approved for Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplant (HSCT). It's the closest thing to a cure for MS that exists. My own stem cells would be harvested, after which I would undergo irradiated chemotherapy to completely wipe out my immune system. Then my stem cells would be reintroduced into my body to build a new immune system, one that's not overactive, and will, ideally, halt my progression. I will be extremely immunocompromised for about a year, but if it's successful, it will be like I never had MS at all!

I've chosen a facility in Mexico. The treatment, ground transportation, lodging, and meals cost $57,500, none of which is covered by insurance. Not included in that price is airfare for myself and the person accompanying me. They must stay with me 24/7 for my entire 28-day treatment.

Of course, like anything in life, there are no guarantees. But the prospect of getting my life back chokes me up every time I think of it. I could provide more direct service to people in need, putting my education and training to better use. I would miss far less time with family and friends, which we all know is precious and fleeting.

As a social worker, family member, and friend, I donate to others' needs whenever I am able. If I can't, I share the person's fundraiser or personal need (with anonymity) on my social media platforms. I am now asking for the same help. I will be documenting the countdown to my treatment here, on my Instagram at @thedarkeststar76, and my TikTok @micheleireland14. Thank you, please share share share, and wish me luck!