Mario Martinez

I have been battling Multiple Sclerosis, a debilitating disease, for the past 10 years. It has taken away a lot of my independence, I fight everyday to stay strong for my family. At first all hope was lost, but now our prayers have been answered as there is hope in the form of a Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplant (HSCT).

The treatment consists of several chemotherapy infusions to dismantle my faulty immune system, followed by a stem-cell “reboot” using my own stem-cells. This type of therapy has been used for years in cancer patients, and is currently in trials here in the US for autoimmune diseases. This is the only treatment that can not only halt the progression of Multiple Sclerosis, but possibly reverse some of my disabilities. I was asked to fly to Chicago, where the trials are being done, for an evaluation, but due to insurance complications, the cost of the evaluation would need to be paid out of pocket. Even then, it is not a guarantee that you will be asked to join the trial.

I am terrible at asking for help, but the truth is I cannot do this alone.

My family and I decided that this treatment is our, my, best chance. We applied to have the procedure done in Puebla, Mexico. There are many facilities worldwide, but Mexico is not only the most cost efficient, but the reputation of the doctors and staff is impeccable. People from all over the world are flying to Mexico to have HSCT. We believe this is the place for us.

In order to prepare for Mexico, I was asked to stay off of my MS medication for 8 weeks. Once I reach the 8 week period I will be able to get on a cancellation list. We are hopeful that once we are on this list, the wait time for Mexico is only a few weeks away, Vs. a year, as we are now confirmed for a May 2017 date. Many have asked us how they can help us during this journey, and our response has been to pray for us, and to talk about our journey to others. We learned about HSCT by reading about others who have succeeded before me. Yes, there is one more way that you can help, if this is something you feel strongly about doing, the procedure will need to be paid out of pocket, the cost will be $54,500. We prayed and talked with friends and family that have encouraged us to open up to you all. Disease is a humbling experience, we have learned that there is no room for pride, instead we have leaned on our faith in God. We really do believe that this is our time, and HSCT is the way.

We chose Help Hope Live to fundraise in part because Help Hope Live assures fiscal accountability of funds raised, and tax deductibility to the full extent allowed by law for donors. Donors can be sure that funds donated will be used only to pay or reimburse medically-related expenses.

Thank you all for taking the time to visit our page, and thank you for all of your thoughts and prayers.

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For more information, please contact Help Hope Live at 800.642.8399.

Thank you for your support!