Since 2017, my brother-in-law, Steve Ambos, has been battling an undiagnosed, chronic and debilitating illness. He has been living with a 24/7 migraine-like headache that, at times is so severe it affects his vision and hearing. His symptoms have worsened over time to include extreme cramping throughout his whole body— sometimes resulting in the inability to walk, memory loss, sensory issues, and excessive sweating. He has seen many doctors at various facilities including The Ohio State University Hospital and the Cleveland Clinic. He has had numerous inpatient stays in the hospital as well as many ER visits.

For nearly 5 years, Steve fought every day to continue going to work. Unfortunately, with his condition getting worse and some days barely being able to physically move, he has been forced to quit working. Heather and Steve have gone from a two-income household to one. With no formal diagnosis, he does not qualify for any type of disability insurance or financial assistance. They have applied for disability, been denied, and appealed the denials. However, without a diagnosis, he does not qualify.

Their family has been trying for some time to get Steve into the Mayo Clinic in Minnesota to see new specialists with the hopes of someone being able to figure out what is wrong and how to treat him. On February 20, they had their first visit to the Mayo Clinic. He saw a new doctor and had many more tests done. They have been told by the doctor that Steve will need to make another trip back to Minnesota for additional testing. We remain hopeful that someone will figure out how to heal Steve and give this once, full-of-life man, his life back.

For those who know them, you can imagine that Steve and Heather, who do so much for so many, have been reluctant to ask for help. But, between medical bills, travel expenses and going from two incomes to one, finances have become an added stress while trying to navigate a chronic, undiagnosed illness. Many people have asked how they can support Steve, Heather, Hunter & Nina as they continue on this journey. Our family would be beyond grateful for any help you can give them as they continue fighting this battle daily.