stem cell transplant - scleroderma

My mom was diagnosed with an autoimmune disease called Systemic Diffuse Scleroderma in July 2013. This type of Scleroderma is a rare debilitating and sometimes life-threatening autoimmune disease that can affect connective tissue throughout the whole body, both inside and out. For those that do not know, there is no cure for this disease. She has been able to slow the progression and treat some of the symptoms with several medications, including oral chemo and IV chemo. She was also put on 24/7 oxygen last October. Her quality of life has diminished and her disease has come to a point where it is now life threatening. She has been approved for a Cardiac Safe Stem Cell Transplant Study at the Northwestern University Hospital in Chicago, by Dr. Richard Burt. The goal of this extensive procedure is to: restore equilibrium to the immune system, allow the disease to go into remission, stopping the progression and also reversing disease symptoms, and to be medication and treatment free post stem cell transplant. Ultimately, this will allow her to have a better quality of life. Her disease has already racked up many medical expenses even though she has the help of insurance. Specifically, this procedure will require numerous trips and a lengthy stay in Chicago, and medical related bills. We would like to raise funds to cover these expenses and the follow up expenses that will incur. Thank you to everyone who has supported her thus far and please continue to keep her in your prayers.