
Help Tucker get Stem Cell Therapy
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Hi there! My name is Tucker, and I’m 10 years old. I live in a small town with my mom, dad, my sister Zoey and little brother Colton. I can’t talk like most kids, but I have my own special ways of communicating with my family and friends.
You see, I have something called nonverbal autism. This means that while I can’t use words to speak, I still find ways to express myself. I use gestures, eye contact, and sometimes pictures to let people know what I need or how I’m feeling. My mom says my eyes speak louder than words, and she always understands me.
I also have type one diabetes. It means that my body needs a little extra help to keep my blood sugar levels just right. My mom and dad help me by checking my blood sugar and changing my pump sites regularly. I can see how my parents struggle and I try to do my best. Sometimes its tough but we’re a strong team, and we always get through it together.
Recently, my family and I heard about something called stem cell therapy. It’s a new kind of treatment that might help me with both my autism and diabetes. We’re really hopeful because it could make a big difference in my life. The doctors say it might help my body make its own insulin and improve how I connect with the world around me.
Even though I face challenges every day, I love life and enjoy many things. I love being around my friends even though I can be easily over stimulated, I love going on adventures with my family, I love swimming and going to the beach and listening to my favorite music which is Morgan Wallen. My family is always there for me, cheering me on and helping me grow stronger.
Stem cell therapy is a promising area of medical research that aims to treat or even cure various conditions by regenerating damaged tissues and organs using stem cells. Here's how it can potentially help with autism and type one diabetes:
Stem Cell Therapy for Autism
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex developmental condition that affects communication, behavior, and social interactions. While the exact causes of autism are still not fully understood, research suggests that abnormalities in brain development and function may play a significant role. Stem cell therapy holds promise for autism in several ways:
Reducing Neuroinflammation: Some studies suggest that inflammation in the brain may contribute to autism symptoms. Stem cells, particularly mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), have anti-inflammatory properties that can potentially reduce neuroinflammation and improve brain function.
Repairing Damaged Brain Tissue: Stem cells have the ability to differentiate into various types of cells, including neurons (nerve cells). This capability could help repair or replace damaged or dysfunctional neurons in the brain, potentially improving cognitive and behavioral functions.
Modulating Immune Responses: Abnormal immune responses are thought to play a role in some cases of autism. Stem cell therapy can help regulate the immune system, reducing abnormal immune activity that might be contributing to the condition.
Enhancing Neurotransmitter Production: Neurotransmitters are chemicals that transmit signals between nerve cells in the brain. Stem cells may help enhance the production and balance of neurotransmitters, improving communication between brain cells.
Stem Cell Therapy for Type One Diabetes
Type one diabetes is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks and destroys insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas. Without insulin, the body cannot regulate blood sugar levels effectively. Stem cell therapy offers several potential benefits for type one diabetes:
Regenerating Beta Cells: Stem cells, particularly those derived from the pancreas or induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), can be directed to become insulin-producing beta cells. These newly created beta cells can potentially replace the ones destroyed by the immune system, restoring the body's ability to produce insulin.
Immune System Modulation: Stem cell therapy may help modulate the immune system, reducing or preventing the autoimmune attack on beta cells. This could protect the newly generated beta cells from being destroyed.
Reducing Insulin Dependency: By regenerating beta cells and restoring insulin production, stem cell therapy could reduce or even eliminate the need for insulin injections, significantly improving the quality of life for individuals with type one diabetes.
Preventing Complications: Better blood sugar control through restored insulin production can help prevent or reduce the risk of long-term complications associated with diabetes, such as nerve damage, kidney disease, and cardiovascular issues
My parents are not looking to "cure" my autism (although it would be nice if it cured type one! HA!) but if it can increase my quality of life in any way, regulating, speaking, eating and or general understanding of what is happening around me. I would be forever grateful.
Love Tucker
Stem Cell Institute
BICSA Tower, 63rd Floor Panama City, Panama
All funds go DIRECTLY to Therapy
Organizer

Katelyn Whelan
Organizer
Hastings, ON