In February 2020, Melissa Youmans Moulton began exhibiting neuropathic symptoms in her hands, arms, legs and feet that progressively worsened to a nearly immobile, bed-ridden condition. She also experienced severe vision problems as well as swelling in her mouth that affected chewing, swallowing and speech. She lost her job due to pandemic cut-backs. As you can imagine, her life and the lives of her husband and 3 children underwent seismic changes.

 

After a year of misdiagnosis, evaluation by several neurologists and Mayo Clinic, she still does not have an official diagnosis other than “unidentified autoimmune disorder” and elevated spinal protein levels. She started IViG infusions and steroid therapy in March, 2021 with gradual improvement allowing her to use a manual lift to move from bed to wheelchair. However, she still had to use an ambulance for transport to all her medical appointments and remained otherwise housebound.

 

In July 2021, she was accepted by Kaiser’s Vallejo Rehab Facility for an intensive 4-week residential physical therapy program. There, she worked incredibly hard to regain muscle strength, ability to transfer in and out of wheelchair, and progress to ability to stand and take steps using assistive devices.

The medical expenses have been very high. Not only high deductibles, co-pays, transport fees and cost of COBRA coverage, but the special products necessary for day-to-day existence and alterations to their home have been a strain. So far, the family has been able to cope.

 

Melissa has been waiting months for a high-mobility wheelchair to be delivered. The wheelchair is built to accommodate her physical measurements and abilities and is critical to her quality of life as she continues to master life with these disabilities. Because Melissa’s COBRA coverage ended September 30 and a new insurance plan is needed, the meter resets on those high deductibles, co-pays and allowable expenses. Melissa and Erik must now bear the cost of the wheelchair, over $5,000, with production on hold until funding is guaranteed.

 

A high-mobility wheelchair gives Melissa full access to all areas of her home, ability to visit other homes, places of business, parks, possibly even drive in the future. Without it, she’s pretty much in stasis, unless some medical miracle occurs.

 

We are asking for your help to raise $5000 and give her back much of what she has lost. Many of you have provided extraordinary emotional & physical support, prayers, meals, and other gifts that have contributed greatly to the family’s well-being. We are so, so grateful. It is not easy to take this step. However, it is vital for Melissa’s continued improvement. Thank you.