URGENT Guillain-Barré Treatment for Mahad Irfan

In the summer of 2022, my brother Mahad and I travelled alone from the UK to the US on holiday. Even though we've had all of our Covid vaccine shots and tested negative beforehand, we unknowingly contracted Covid during the flight. Our symptoms weren't normal, and represented those of the new variant Omicron B4 and B5. Our condition was dormant for around 2 weeks until I became mildly ill, and Mahad began losing stability in his legs, which progressed to numbness and being unable to stand unless assisted by a cane. In under a week he was admitted to the hospital and diagnosed with Guillain-Barré syndome.

Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) is an autoimmune disease triggered by infections and flus. The immune system mistakenly attacks begins attacking nerves, causing a loss of sensation starting in the feet and rising up the limbs to spread to the rest of the body. The disease itself can take a few months to several years to be controlled, and there is no certainty to how it will spread. As Mahad was born with an abnormality at the top of his spine, the disease has stayed mainly in his lower body. Though he no longer has Covid and has repeatedly tested negative through PCR tests, Guillain-Barré syndrome has affected him negatively. Stranded away from our parents, we are enduring MRI's, IVIG's, Spinal Taps, Physical Therapy and other procedures alone. We are 16 and 18 years old respectively, and due to Nebraska state law Mahad is still considered a minor. In addition, we do not have any health insurance in the US which means the total cost of his treatment could easily exceed $30,000.

Mahad has amazing opportunities waiting for him at home, such as starting his new apprenticeship and his A-Level results which will determine his future. Unfortunately, we may be forced to extend our stay in the US so he is able to receive high-quality treatment, and to prevent the possibility of being bound to a wheelchair or, as a last resort, life support.

Our goal is to In'sha'Allah raise £25,000 to cover some of the costs of treatment. Mahad is a healthy, motivated boy and a great son and brother to his family. He is determined to get his life back together and to at least walk with a cane. Guillain-Barré has no cure, but can be managed with the right support and treatment. Me and my family would greatly appreciate if you could donate to save his future.

Thank you,

Maida Irfan.