Dear friends, family, and community,
We’re reaching out in the hardest chapter of our life. Over the past year, Billy has been facing a rapidly progressing condition that’s left him with debilitating weakness in both arms and hands. While he is very good at hiding it, it has progressed to the point where day-to-day life is extremely difficult.
After seeing many doctors and taking countless tests, he’s been diagnosed with a very rare condition affecting the nerves in his arms, but no one can explain what’s causing it or how to stop it. If accurate, the diagnosis would have devastating outcomes in both best and worst-case scenarios.
This has been unfathomably difficult news to receive, especially while raising our two young children, Leo (3) and Ellie (1). It’s hard to articulate the daily impact it has had on our family, with uncertainty of our future constantly looming over us. As those of you who know Billy would expect, he does his best to stay positive, but this journey has also had deep impacts to his emotional well-being.
Where We Found Hope
Recently, we connected with a team of specialists who believe Billy may be suffering from an overlooked but treatable issue in his upper spine--one that doesn't always show up in standard MRIs. They've offered us a potential path forward, including diagnostics and cutting-edge treatments that could stop the damage, and even help him regain lost function.
This clinic is known for taking on complex, unresolved cases like his, and for the first time in a long time, we feel real hope.
Why We’re Asking for Help
Unfortunately, the care he needs, including imaging, treatment, travel, and recovery, isn’t covered by insurance. We've done all we can to manage the costs over the past 18 months, but now we’re asking for help.
Your donation will go toward:
- Advanced imaging and diagnosis
- Regenerative treatment to stabilize his spine and protect his nerves
- Ongoing functional neurology rehabilitation to support healing and retrain his nervous system
- Physical therapy and mobility support
We’re hoping to raise $30,000 to make this care possible and give him the best shot at recovery.
How You Can Help
If you’re able to give, we would be so deeply grateful. Every bit truly helps. If you’re unable to give, sharing this page or keeping us in your thoughts means the world to us too.
We’re holding onto hope, and holding onto the belief that he will get better. It’s the only outcome we’re willing to accept.
With love,
Galena, Leo, and Ellie
Organizer
Galena Robertson-Geibel
Organizer
San Diego, CA