In 2008, at the young age of 57, Shannon was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. This condition is a progressive disorder of the nervous system that affects movement and develops gradually. While tremors are the most well-known sign of Parkinson’s disease, the disorder also commonly causes stiffness or slowing of movement, and eventually affects the whole body’s nervous system. Since her diagnosis, Shannon has embraced a myriad of treatment options, using both traditional and alternative protocols, but has found minimal relief. Shannon lives in Southern California, where she was an RN for thirty years. She was an exceptional caregiver, pouring her heart and soul into her work, and offering comfort to patients and their families during their most difficult times. Shannon is the loving mother of three daughters, and has eight grandchildren.

Daily life for Shannon includes aggravated tremors, rigidity, and muscle pain. Due to her condition, despite her love and passion for nursing, Shannon had to give up her career. Recently though, Shannon received some hopeful news, and was introduced to a promising medical procedure through a clinic called StemGenex. They offer a type of non-embryonic stem cell therapy that employs transplant technology using a patient’s own stem cells. In an effort to help relieve the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease, and stop the progression associated with it, Shannon is determined to try this new therapy. But funding for this type of treatment is monumental, and Shannon’s medical insurance does not yet cover stem-cell therapy. Shannon will require up to $20,000 for this treatment, as well as extensive follow-up visits and medications.