You know it is really amazing to me that life has so many twists and turns. In recent weeks I have scanned a lot of pictures and I have been tagging a lot of you on Facebook. That exercise has served as a great reminder of the many, many people that have been an integral part of my life and the contributions you have made in helping to create the person that I am today.

Unfortunately, I need to ask one more favor of you.

As you know, I was about 35 when a life-changing event happened to me. That event was the confirmation of my diagnosis of Multiple Sclerosis.  Most people think they know what it means to have MS but I don't think that they truly do.  How can they really? The effects of MS are different for everyone! 

The fact is that your life will be irrevocably changed. What is it like to live with MS?

1) Do I fall unexpectedly?  Yes.  This is part of the degenerative nature of this disease.  In fact, I have graduated from a cane to a walker for its additional support.  Will I end up in a wheelchair? Not necessarily. Could it happen?  Yes.

2) Do I drive? Not anymore.  Do I think the awful effects of MS can be avoided? No, not entirely, but I do believe that the nature of its effects can be eased with practice and patience. They have for me already (in some positive ways).  It just takes time.   A LOT of time. The key, I believe, is to never give up.

3) Is there a cure?  Not yet, unfortunately.

This request might be the greatest test of my willpower . . . EVER!! It takes every iota of trust that I place in you to summon up the courage to reach out to you in this way.  I am opening up and revealing a side of myself that is very difficult to express for me.

There is additional fuel for the courage that I previously referenced, though.  I am a husband and a father that has not been able to contribute to his household in the way that I thought that I would for the past 15 years.   

We have been fortunate over these years to be able to meet my medical needs while keeping our household running. This is no longer the case.

Now, I am not "throwing in the towel!"  I am just being realistic.  So, with that in mind, I am reaching out to you. I currently have a few specific things that I am seeking assistance with.

Combatting this illness has not been a cheap proposition. I have medical insurance but I have had the most success with my health when I sought out alternative care.  As you likely know, once you step outside of 'traditional' medicine, insurance covers little if anything.  Accordingly, I have an amount owed to my doctors and other related medical expenses in the amount of approximately $21,500 that I am requesting your assistance with.

I have been unable to work for more than 8 years, but I do feel I have found a career that is well-suited to my goals and my desire to make a positive change to the lives of those around me (and the World) as a Health Coach.  A Health Coach is a person that facilitates healthy, sustainable behavior change by challenging a client to develop their inner wisdom, identify their values, and transform their goals into action. I can do this work from home and can certainly understand the struggles of my clients.

The hurdle that I have regarding this dream becoming a reality is that it will require me to study to become a Certified Health coach.  And the cost of obtaining such certification is about $6,000.  Back to School for me! The one saving grace is that I can take the classes online, which is helpful with my limited mobility. 

I have some additional expenses, that are specifically related to my beautiful daughter, Kendall. She has proven herself to be very adept at both academics and athletics.  As an example, she has been invited to take part in a weeklong Leadership camp this summer and to participate in the Montclair State Gifted and Talented Program this summer.  Incredible life at 9, right?

Now, I would never ask any single person to help me foot these bills, but I am hoping I can ask you for a modest contribution to the Go Fund Me account I have set up to track and accept any donations.

I am sorry for this ong email but I had a lot to say!! Thanks! :-)
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Don M. Wade

"People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel." - Maya Angelou