Hi, my name is Arlene, and I am writing this on behalf of my dear friends, Dan and Kate. Dan is a remarkable individual who was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS) at age 25. For the past 10 years, he has bravely faced this progressive disease without a cure while building his career and adapting to immense physical challenges. Despite the best treatments available, Dan has a very aggressive and unrelenting form of MS, primary progressive MS, which has caused severe damage to his spinal cord. Over the past 10 years, his MS has stolen his mobility and independence. He now relies on a power wheelchair full-time because he has no control over his legs or his left arm. Presently, he's experiencing declining strength and dexterity in his only remaining working limb—his right arm.

Despite these hurdles, Dan has managed to continue working full-time as a web developer, making use of assistive technology to maintain his responsibilities. However, the toll on his health, both physically and mentally, has become too much. His doctor has recommended that he stop working to focus on his health and manage his condition. This is why we need your help.

Dan and his partner Kate have put all of their savings into buying a small home that allows them to live near their support system and to give them a place where they can make the necessary accessibility modifications for Dan's needs. They’ve completely remodeled their bathroom to include a zero-threshold shower and recently spent $10,000 to install a ceiling lift system in several rooms to help Kate safely transfer Dan between his bed, shower, and exercise equipment. Kate, who is half Dan’s size and works full-time, has lovingly taken on the role of caregiver, helping him with his medical needs and physical therapy as much as she can. However, Kate herself has to work full-time and can't always be available to provide the help Dan needs or to drive their wheelchair van. Additionally, many of the transportation options, medicines, equipment, and nursing / therapy services Dan requires are not covered by insurance, leaving the financial burden entirely on them.

To make these critical modifications and ensure Dan’s safety, they’ve had to take on some very scary debt. Just as they were finishing up repaying their student loans, they now face significant expenses and challenges usually reserved for much later in life—expenses that often await people after a lifetime of building savings and careers. At only 35, Dan and Kate are navigating a situation few people face at this stage of life, and they need your support.

We are asking for $35,000 to help cover the following:

Dan has faced these challenges with a sense of humor and deep appreciation for the people and providers who have supported him. He remains determined not to let his condition bring him down, finding joy in the moments he can and showing gratitude for everything he receives. Kate has been his rock, dedicating herself to his care and choosing every day to be there for him. Over the past ten years, she has shown unwavering commitment, and together they are building a future in their new home. We want to ensure this home is a safe and sustainable place for both of them.

Dan and Kate are facing these challenges with courage, but they need your support to ensure Dan can live safely and with dignity. Any contribution, no matter how small, would make a world of difference. Thank you for reading and for any support you can provide.

With gratitude,

Arlene