In 2003, at only 27 years old, Gavin was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis. His passion for skateboarding and for art remained but were hindered by his condition. He began to rely on a cane to walk.
By January 2005, Gavin moved back into his parents’ home, unable to care for himself without help. Later that year, he was diagnosed with advanced Lyme disease as well as two co-infections. His health continued to decline. He tried many conventional and non-conventional treatments, including bee-sting therapy and immunosuppressive therapy, in addition to taking various antibiotics. In 2006, Gavin began using a wheelchair. His prospects seemed uncertain and his resolve was challenged.
In 2008, encouraged by a friend’s success, Gavin researched Nu Tech hospital in New Delhi, India, a forward-thinking institution specializing in stem cell therapies for spinal cord injuries, MS, Lyme, ALS, and other debilitating conditions. Dr. Geeta Shroff, the director of the hospital, has helped over 700 patients to date, all of whom have shown some measure of improvement. Some patients have shown such dramatic improvement that they have essentially been cured. Gavin is the 5th Lyme patient in the world to be treated at Nu Tech and has seen significant benefits from Dr. Shroff’s treatments.
Since 2008, Gavin has returned to India twice for continued treatment. His brain lesions and food allergies have dissipated, and his white blood cell count has stabilized, helping his body to fight the Lyme on its own.
Gavin owes much of his improvement to his successful stem cell treatments, which have proven to be largely effective in treating his dual diagnosis of MS and Lyme. His treatments are scheduled to resume at Nu Tech in January 2011.
Gavin’s initial journey to India cost $40,000, and the following two visits each cost another $20,000. This next visit is crucial. We have depleted our savings and are still paying for his last three visits. Gavin needs your financial help to continue his critically important stem cell treatments. We know these are challenging financial times, so we ask you to give only what you can. We hope to raise the needed $30,000 for his upcoming medical expenses. Any financial assistance will be much appreciated and will allow him to continue down the road towards recovery.
We have established a fundraising trust in Gavin’s honor with HelpHOPELive for the expenses needed for the next treatment. HelpHOPELive is a nonprofit that has been assisting the transplant community for 25 years. HelpHOPELive has the highest ratings for a nonprofit nationally, and all donations are tax-deductible. For more information, please contact HelpHOPELive at 800-642-8399.
Gavin and I greatly appreciate any assistance you may offer and are humbled by the kindness of old and new friends.
Thank you for your support,
Kristin Conner
