Help Marcela Regain Independence from CIDP

Hi, my name is Marcela Gergin. Some of you are my friends, coworkers, or you don’t know me. I've always prided myself on being independent, resilient, and caring for everything life throws my way. However, I find myself at a crossroads that I never anticipated, and I'm seeking your support.

In the past few years, I've faced incredible challenges, from surviving follicular lymphoma cancer twice to battling and overcoming pulmonary fibrosis after a severe bout with COVID-19. Throughout it all, I've managed to continue working and living a "normal life." All of it has been possible thanks to the unwavering support of a fantastic company I am fortunate to work for, my coworkers, my clients who have offered unfaltering support the whole time, and my loved ones who have been a reason to keep fighting.

Unfortunately, my journey has taken an unexpected turn with the diagnosis of Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyneuropathy (CIDP). Something that I never heard before. CIDP is a rare neurological disorder that affects the peripheral nerves, causing weakness, numbness, and a decline in motor skills. Despite my best efforts, CIDP has started to rob me of my independence, making daily tasks increasingly challenging.

I am currently INSURED with the best insurance offered; I pay a high monthly premium, and my company pays too; my deductible has been covered, but to my dismay, my insurance has refused to cover the necessary treatment for CIDP. Every day that goes by, I lose more of my mobility. I had to start using a walker for the last couple of weeks, and as of today, I can barely walk even with the walker; I am having issues talking, and doing basic daily tasks. Every day that goes by, I am getting more and more paralyzed, and I feel trapped inside a body that is slowly shutting down.

I have been talking to my medical team and my insurance, and it's been back and forth to keep getting refusal after refusal to get coverage. The treatment is costly, and every day without it, my body keeps on deteriorating, and I will end up completely handicapped.

I got a co-pay from the laboratory that produces de IVIG infusions, and using that money, the insurance only approved three infusions. I’m supposed to get 15 infusions to start. The cost is over $9468 each first three infusions. I need to get 3 infusions in a row every 6 weeks. The center where I get them also charge for giving the infusions and I need to get blood tests each time. Everything adds.

The financial burden of this unexpected turn has left me feeling overwhelmed, and I am now turning to the generosity and kindness of others for help. Asking for help is definitely the hardest part of this. After Covid, I finished my savings and don’t have much left saved. I never thought I will do a GoFundMe, that’s why I have a good insurance. And here we are.

Your contribution will go directly towards covering the medical expenses, treatments, and therapies that are crucial for managing CIDP and preventing further deterioration. Every dollar brings me one step closer to regaining control over my life, maintaining my independence, and contributing to the world around me.

I am deeply grateful for any support you can offer, whether it's a donation or simply sharing my story. Your kindness means more to me than words can express, and I am hopeful that, with your help, I can face this challenge head-on and emerge stronger than ever.

Thank you for being a beacon of hope in my journey and for making a difference in the life of someone who is fighting to reclaim her independence against all odds.

With heartfelt gratitude,

Marcela Gergin