I am living with severe physical disabilities from multiple sclerosis. This disease has left my legs paralyzed, and as a result, I have faced a cascade of health challenges. Sitting all day has led to a hiatal hernia, which causes painful esophagitis from constant acid reflux. A sedentary lifestyle has brought on tachycardia, with my heart rate spiking scarily high even while sitting. My intestinal motility has slowed, resulting in chronic constipation and the removal of nine polyps from my colon. Sitting all day has also caused hemorrhoids and constant discomfort. Since losing the ability to walk, I have developed sleep apnea and struggle with constant lethargy, as movement is essential for energy and restful sleep. My world has become much smaller, as I can only access a bathroom at home, making it nearly impossible to travel or visit loved ones outside my town.

On top of these physical challenges, my home life has become increasingly difficult. Since my disabilities began, my husband has treated me like an inconvenience and a burden. He has told me, "I have never been attracted to disabled women." Many times, he has been rough and careless, leaving bruises on me. The emotional and physical abuse I experience at home has made my journey even more isolating and painful.

There is hope. The Ekso Indego exoskeleton offers the ability to stand and walk again. With this device, I could stand at the kitchen counter to help prepare meals, brush my teeth at the bathroom sink, and even get in and out of the car to visit a restroom—regaining the freedom to travel and see my aging parents. Last year I missed my grandmother's funeral because there was not a single wheelchair accessible taxi in her town. The exoskeleton would not only improve my mobility but also address the many health issues caused by immobility, giving me a chance to reclaim my independence and quality of life. Just as importantly, being able to move again would help ease the depression and anxiety that come from losing independence and being isolated. The hope of regaining mobility lifts my spirits and gives me something to look forward to each day.

Your support would mean the world to me. With your help, I can take steps—literally and figuratively—toward a healthier, more independent future. Any contribution, big or small, will make a difference in my journey to walk again. Thank you for considering being part of my story.