Support Jason's fight against MOGAD

On Saturday, April 12th, Jason began experiencing concerns after losing some important bodily functions, which led him and his wife to seek evaluation at the VA Medical Center in Gainesville, FL. After being assessed, the medical team expressed concern and recommended further evaluation by the neurosurgery team at UF Shands Gainesville, located across the street. Shortly after being transferred to UF Shands, Jason lost sensation and the ability to walk, quickly progressing to paralysis that spread upwards within 24 hours of the initial symptoms. Over the next few days, Jason underwent numerous scans, lab tests, and continuous monitoring in the intensive care unit.

Doctors at UF Shands diagnosed Jason with a rare condition called Myelin Oligodendrocyte Glycoprotein Antibody Disease (MOGAD). This autoimmune disorder targets the myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein, which plays a crucial role in protecting nerve fibers in the brain, spinal cord, and optic nerves, leading to inflammation in these areas, including the optic nerves, spinal cord, and brain. Treatment of this condition includes plasma exchange (PLEX) and intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG), as well as intensive monitoring and therapies.

Jason is a proud US Army veteran and a dedicated civil servant, working tirelessly in federal government to support his family and country. Anyone who knows Jason will attest to his vibrant personality, as he has the ability to bring life to any conversation and make others smile or laugh with his stories and jokes. To his family—his wife Jennifer, young children Alec and Olivia, his parents, and extended loved ones—Jason is their rock, and seeing him in this condition has been absolutely devastating.

Jason has been making significant progress considering two weeks ago he was completely bedbound and dependent on care. He remains hospitalized and is awaiting opportunity to transfer to an intensive rehabilitation hospital to continue aggressive rehabilitation efforts. This will be a long journey and a difficult road ahead, but with an aggressive and supportive medical team and the love and support of family and loved ones, it is looking hopeful.

Any and all donations are deeply appreciated to help cover daily expenses, transportation to and from the hospital (which is over 1.5 hours each way), and to alleviate financial strain on the family during this challenging time while Jason is unable to work. Your support makes a meaningful difference for Jason, his family and loved ones and they are incredibly grateful.