Parkinson's Brain Surgery- Don King

I was diagnosed with early-onset Parkinson's disease at the young age of 45.  I have  been fighting this disease for almost 6 years.  I work a full-time job as an automotive technician.  My wife, Julie, is going to college full time, so she can get her degree before I am unable to continue working full time.  In addition to having to live with this debilitating disease,  My disabled father lives with us as well. Asking for assistance is almost as difficult as undergoing surgery.  Perhaps the toughest part is in the realization that I can’t overcome a medical hardship without asking for the kindness of others.  I reach out to you, my friends and family, who are genuinely concerned about my well being , yet may not be all that familiar with my personal struggles with Parkinson’s. I now meet the criteria to undergo an amazing surgery called Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) or the implanting of a brain pacemaker which will help alleviate the symptoms of the disease and side effects of the medication he takes. These include headaches, loss of concentration, numbness, shaking,  restless leg syndrome, no sense of smell and involuntary movements (dyskinesia) to name a few. The surgery will improve my quality of life considerably and allow him to extend my working life to continue to provide for my family. I only recently made the decision to undergo the surgery and have been fortunate enough to meet the criteria for the procedure. I will be having the surgery at  Emory University Healthcare Center in  Atlanta early summer 2019, which will be undertaken by Neurological expert, Dr. Laura Scorr. The total cost for the surgery will be in excess of $65,000 including the pacemaker.   Fortunately, 70%  of the surgery and related costs will be covered by our health insurance.  However, the current estimated shortfall is $25,000.   This is for the deductible and loss of wages during his recovery period.....which could be as long as 3 months.   With myself being the sole wage earner in our home,  I cannot move forward with this surgery until we have these funds available that will allow me to take leave from work for recovery without having to be stressed with the associated financial woes. Your generosity is therefore extremely welcomed.  Hopefully we can reach our target and remove this financial burden so I can focus on the surgery and getting back on with life. Your support and prayers are greatly appreciated.   God Bless! Don