Support Efrain Rodriguez's Battle with MS

Hello, I'm Ivonne, and I'm reaching out with a heart heavy with concern for my husband, Efrain Rodriguez, who is courageously fighting Primary Progressive Multiple Sclerosis. Our family is in desperate need of help, and we've turned to this GoFundMe page in the hopes that kindness and compassion will see us through this challenging time.

My husband Efrain was diagnosed last November 2023 with Multiple Sclerosis. MS has stolen so much from us since but never our faith. Efrain, once the pillar of our family's strength and joy, now battles daily against unimaginable pain, short term blindness and seizure-like episodes are just some of his symptoms with this disease. His laughter, his presence at our children's milestones, all are now shadowed by the relentless grip of this disease. Each day brings new struggles, each night filled with worry as I watch over him, afraid of what the next seizure-like episode may bring. Seeing his health progressively declining has taken a toll on myself, our kids, family and friends after a misdiagnosis in 2014. The financial implications of managing MS are daunting, adding to the emotional and physical stress of this illness.

The financial toll suddenly has been crushing. With Efrain unable to work and my own career paused to care for him, our reserves have dwindled to nothing. Our family and friends try their best to help with our kid's needs, the mortgage and bills but it's never enough. Medical expenses weigh us down, and the pressure to keep up with our household needs is overwhelming.

We've applied for government assistance and disability benefits, but the process is slow. In fact, we were told that his disability process can very well exceed a year. In the meantime, bills mount higher, and the cost of essential medical equipment, medications loom large. These items would not just improve Efrain's mobility but would grant him moments of freedom and dignity he so desperately deserves.

Your donation, no matter the size, will make an enormous difference. It will ease our financial burdens, allowing us to focus on what truly matters—Efrain's health and well-being. It will give us a glimmer of hope in what often feels like an endless storm. Your kindness will be a lifeline, a beacon of light in our darkest days.

Please, if you can, donate and share our story. Spread the word to friends, family, and anyone who may find it in their heart to help. Your generosity will not only support us practically but will also lift our spirits and remind us that we are not alone in this fight. Thank you for taking the time to read our story and for considering a donation. Your support means more than words can express and a prayer goes a long way. Together, we can keep hope alive for Efrain and our family. May blessings abound for each and every one of you.

Information about the disease listed below for those who might not know.

What is Multiple Sclerosis: (MS) is a potentially disabling disease of the brain and spinal cord (central nervous system).

In MS, the immune system attacks the protective sheath (myelin) that covers nerve fibers and causes communication problems between your brain and the rest of your body. Eventually, the disease can cause permanent damage or deterioration of the nerve fibers.