Stem Cells For Grayson
Donation protected
From the day we got Grayson’s official Autism diagnosis we have tried to remain extremely open about all parts of our family’s journey. We do this as a way to keep our immediate network informed and to promote awareness about Autism to others that aren’t exposed to it as part of their daily lives. As many of you know from our previous Facebook posts Grayson received a stem cell treatment a couple months ago. For those who don’t know exactly what a stem cell is (I didn’t until we started researching this therapy)….below is an easy to understand definition.
What are stem cells?
Stem cells are cells that have the potential to develop into some or many different cell types in the body. Serving as a sort of repair system, they can theoretically divide without limit to replenish other cells for as long as the person or animal is still alive. When a stem cell divides, each "daughter" cell has the potential to either remain a stem cell or become another type of cell with a more specialized function, such as a muscle cell, a red blood cell, or a brain cell.
There is evidence that suggests a strong correlation between Autism and inflammation in the body. So the idea at a high level is that these stem cells would go to the areas of inflammation, whether that is the gut, the brain or other areas and help repair or replace the damaged cells.
Since the first treatment we’ve noticed considerable improvement in Grayson’s gut. He used to take a prescription level dosage of gas medicine. Now, instead of needing it every day, its being given as needed….which has been very rare. We’ve communicated with many other families who have seen amazing results from stem cells…but seeing the benefits first hand has only reinforced the decision to pursue additional treatments. We are hoping that additional rounds of treatment (every 4 months) will increase the potential for healing in other areas now that his gut seems to be doing better.
So, what’s the downside you ask? The downside is to our wallet. The treatment is extremely expensive, $4,000, for each treatment session. The doctor recommends between 4-6 as part of Grayson’s treatment plan. The other downside is to my pride. I am very uncomfortable asking people for money for something that is my family’s responsibility. That said, we are constantly being asked by friends and family what they can do to help. We have the most amazing support system of people who genuinely love and accept Grayson just the way he is. It’s only because of this that I’m at all ok asking for help with the cost of this treatment. Grayson’s extremely generous great-grandmother has already agreed to pay for a significant portion of this round of treatment. So I’m here to see what we can raise to offset the rest of the cost.
We truly appreciate any contribution no matter how small. And if you aren’t in a position to donate financially, know that every text, every like/share on FB, and every comment or call we get is never taken lightly by us and just as appreciated.
What are stem cells?
Stem cells are cells that have the potential to develop into some or many different cell types in the body. Serving as a sort of repair system, they can theoretically divide without limit to replenish other cells for as long as the person or animal is still alive. When a stem cell divides, each "daughter" cell has the potential to either remain a stem cell or become another type of cell with a more specialized function, such as a muscle cell, a red blood cell, or a brain cell.
There is evidence that suggests a strong correlation between Autism and inflammation in the body. So the idea at a high level is that these stem cells would go to the areas of inflammation, whether that is the gut, the brain or other areas and help repair or replace the damaged cells.
Since the first treatment we’ve noticed considerable improvement in Grayson’s gut. He used to take a prescription level dosage of gas medicine. Now, instead of needing it every day, its being given as needed….which has been very rare. We’ve communicated with many other families who have seen amazing results from stem cells…but seeing the benefits first hand has only reinforced the decision to pursue additional treatments. We are hoping that additional rounds of treatment (every 4 months) will increase the potential for healing in other areas now that his gut seems to be doing better.
So, what’s the downside you ask? The downside is to our wallet. The treatment is extremely expensive, $4,000, for each treatment session. The doctor recommends between 4-6 as part of Grayson’s treatment plan. The other downside is to my pride. I am very uncomfortable asking people for money for something that is my family’s responsibility. That said, we are constantly being asked by friends and family what they can do to help. We have the most amazing support system of people who genuinely love and accept Grayson just the way he is. It’s only because of this that I’m at all ok asking for help with the cost of this treatment. Grayson’s extremely generous great-grandmother has already agreed to pay for a significant portion of this round of treatment. So I’m here to see what we can raise to offset the rest of the cost.
We truly appreciate any contribution no matter how small. And if you aren’t in a position to donate financially, know that every text, every like/share on FB, and every comment or call we get is never taken lightly by us and just as appreciated.
Organizer
Adam Anker
Organizer
Jacksonville, FL
