Hi, my name is Martha, and in April 2024, I was officially diagnosed with Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyneuropathy (CIDP)—a rare and debilitating autoimmune disorder that attacks the nerves, leading to muscle weakness, sensory loss, and in severe cases, paralysis.

My journey to this diagnosis was long and painful. My symptoms began in March 2023, when I started experiencing severe pain in my legs. Despite repeatedly seeking medical help, I was told by my doctor that it was likely due to menopause. As the months went on, my condition rapidly worsened. By November 2023, I was completely bedridden, unable to move from the waist down, and I had lost almost all function in my left arm. It was only at this point that my doctor reconsidered and suggested I had a compressed disc, but this diagnosis didn’t match my symptoms.

A neurosurgeon later confirmed that my condition was far more serious and advised me to go immediately to the emergency room at UCI Medical Center in Orange, California. I was hospitalized there for 28 days, where after extensive testing, I was finally diagnosed with CIDP.

What is CIDP?

CIDP is a chronic neurological disorder where the body's immune system mistakenly attacks the protective covering of the nerves (myelin), causing progressive weakness, numbness, and loss of movement. Without ongoing treatment, the condition can cause permanent nerve damage and disability.

My Current Condition

I am now completely immobile and require 24-hour care. I cannot move on my own at all—not even to turn myself in bed. I rely entirely on caregivers for every basic function, including being lifted in and out of a wheelchair, repositioned in bed, and assisted with all daily activities. This level of care is essential for my survival but comes at an overwhelming financial cost.

Now, I am facing a long and expensive road to recovery. My treatment includes:

The financial burden of my hospital stays, treatments, and ongoing care is overwhelming. I never imagined I would be in this situation, but I cannot fight this battle alone.

How You Can Help

Your support—whether through a donation or simply sharing my story—can make an enormous difference in my life. Every contribution will help cover medical expenses, treatments, and therapies that are critical to my recovery.

I am holding onto hope that, with the right care, I will one day regain my independence and return to the life I once knew.

Thank you for taking the time to read my story. Any help, big or small, is deeply appreciated.

You can learn more about CIDP here .

Thank you from the bottom of my heart for considering helping me in this fight.

With gratitude,

Martha