Tonya needs your support!

My wife, Tonya Godwin is 45 years-old and suffers from primary progressive multiple sclerosis, or PPMS. PPMS is a chronic inflammatory disease that causes destruction of the central nervous system. There is no cure for this disease, and because PPMS is a rare form of multiple sclerosis, there are even fewer treatments available. Since 2005, PPMS has left my wife, a once extremely active exercise enthusiast, unable to walk and in a wheelchair fulltime. Tonya experiences debilitating pain, muscle weakness, neuropathy, fatigue, tremors, and extreme stiffness in her lower body. These symptoms keep her wheelchair bound and unable to take part or enjoy the things she once loved.

Tonya and I met in college, and have been married for over 23 years. We have a daughter and son, and as you can imagine Tonya means the world to me. Our daughter attends North Carolina State and our son is proudly serving in the United States Coast Guard. Conventional medications have not worked for Tonya, and her condition continues to deteriorate. Despite her illness, Tonya is a strong soul and has a never give up attitude. We try and remain optimistic and are hopeful that one day she will enjoy the opportunity to once again be active, and spend time enjoying our children’s lives. In the meantime, we are trying to still find way to enjoy life and find blessings in each day we are given.