My wife Karen was diagnosed with MSA in 2019. Multiple system atrophy (MSA) is a rare disease which causes degeneration (atrophy) of nerve cells in several areas of the brain. The body's involuntary (autonomic) functions become affected, including blood pressure, breathing, bladder function and motor control. MSA shares many Parkinson's disease-like symptoms, such as increasingly rigid muscles, slow movement, tremors and poor balance.

There is no cure. The only treatment includes medications and lifestyle changes to help manage symptoms. The condition progresses gradually and eventually leads to death.

Karen is currently participating in a first ever drug trial sponsored by Biohaven Pharmaceuticals that is designed to slow the progression of the disease. We hope that this is working, and so far Karen has kept very positive, but her motor skills and speech are still deteriorating.

Those who know Karen remember her as an extremely active person who loves animals, especially dogs. Before her diagnosis, she was actively involved in looking after them, exercising and boarding them. But she became unable to manage these activities and, indeed, now requires assistance with walking and other everyday functions.

Karen needs help to provide her the equipment, such as indoor and outdoor ramps, treatments such as voice and physio therapies, and other constant care this disease commands. 

Whatever assistance you can give will be greatly appreciated.