I want to stay alive for my family, but ALS is killing me!

Summertime is supposed to be spent on planning a relaxing getaway. 

Unfortunately for me, it was the worst time of my life. I received a diagnosis that changed everything by 180 degrees.

I am a wife and a mother of two wonderful children, an 8-year-old girl, and a 5-year-old boy. We used to have a peaceful and happy life, and my only health issue was a mild spinal injury. The doctors told me that was the reason for my right foot drop. 

The MRI scan detected a herniated disc, and although it healed on its own, my health condition got worse day by day. In January 2024, I developed a left foot drop. 

In June, I found out I had ALS. My whole world fell apart! 

It is a cruel, terminal disease of unknown etiology that affects nerve cells and leads to body paralysis, affecting muscles responsible for breathing and swallowing. 

It is characterized by muscle weakness that spreads and gets worse over time. 

There is no cure for ALS - we can only slow its progression.

Most patients die within 3-5 years after the diagnosis is made. 

The diagnosis took me by surprise and turned my world upside down. 

Although every day is a struggle, I am not giving up. I believe that treatment and rehabilitation will improve the quality of my life and slow down the progress of the disease. I would also like to try other treatments, like stem cell therapy. These are expensive alternatives, though. 

I must ask you for help. Every donation brings me closer to a better future for my family. It gives me hope to experience many moments together, to see my children smiling, and to live without pain and fear. 

Natalia & family