CALIFORNIA, Md. — Christopher Romano, a local man with spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), recently set up a GoFundMe to help raise money for stem cell treatment therapy. Many treatments aren’t offered in the United States, making it more challenging to find help for SMA.
Spinal muscular atrophy is a serious neuromuscular disease that affects voluntary muscle control. It can impede everyday functions, like walking and eating, hindering the independence of those who have it.
SMA is incredibly rare, only affecting around 1 in every 6,000 babies born. Independent living can be difficult due to SMA’s effect on basic movement, but mesenchymal and embryonic stem cell treatments offer a glimmer of hope.
Chris shared more about his goals on the GoFundMe:
“The reason I am making this GoFundMe page is to go to Belgrade for stem cell treatment therapy. Most effective stem cell therapies are not offered in the United States, such as embryonic and mesenchymal stem cell treatments.”
Chris is asking individuals and businesses in the Southern Maryland community to help him reach a $30,000 goal to offer him a chance at effective treatment. So far, $820 has been raised to help support Romano’s cause.
“I ask that you donate what money you can, either from personal, business, or other financial resources that can help me. I greatly appreciate the assistance because this disease affects my independence.”
If you’d like to donate or share the message, here’s Romano’s GoFundMe page.
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