Craig's Medical Recovery Fund

Craig J. Szmigiel is 25 years old, and suffers from an extremely rare Autoimmune Disease called NMO (neuromyelitis optica). This disease is similar to MS (multiple sclerosis) as it affects the immune system. Unknown of its cause, and no knowledge of a cure, the body contains an anti-body that attacks the immune system. This causes lesions to form on the brain and spine. When this happens, it causes muscle weakness, dizziness, blurred vision, impaired nerve function, and in many cases paralysis. The effects of these symptoms can be permanent and life threatening. Unfortunately for Craig, he suffered one of the worst cases imaginable.

After spending over 6 combined months in the hospital, his insurance is no longer willing to cover his physical therapy, or his life saving medication.  Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy is recommended for Craig and costs $6,600.  One of the medications he needs is called an "IVIG" infusion. This procedure costs $22,000 per infusion, and he needs this twice a month.  Also, he is in need of a form of chemo treatment called "Rituxan" 2-3 times a year, which is around $12,000 per infusion.  

Craig has recently been accepted as a candidate to participate in stem cell therapy.  Unfortunately, insurance does not cover this procedure as it is an out-of-pocket expense for the patient in the amount of $21,720.  These stem cells will be derived from donated umbilical cords.  His main goal is to get his life back.  Various aspects of his life are suffering because of his condition.  His life has drastically changed for the worse and he's desperate to find an escape from this nightmare.  His three year old daughter needs her father to be healthy enough to take care of her without assistance.

Furthermore, Craig sees this as a stepping stone for humanity.  Roughly 10% (650+ million people) in the world are living with disabilities.  It would be an honor for him to be able to participate in this study/trial that may eventually lead to medical advances worldwide.  He knows the pain, suffering, depression and hell hole that people have to go through when dealing with a disability.  Nothing but kindness and compassion is in this young man's heart & soul as it is his passion to help people.

Please help our family attempt to cover the cost of these medications & therapy while we continue our battle with the insurance agency to get him coverage. Craig has fought so hard thus far, and he needs to continue his road to recovery & needs his medication to fight this awful disease from ever coming back.

We will be continuing to have donations and fundraisers well into the future to try and help Craig in any way possible. Every little bit helps, and we thank you so very much for all of your continued support.

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