Get Jo to the Mayo Clinic

THE LOW DOWN

What: Josie is going to the Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA.

Mission: To find out what the bloody hell is wrong with her neurologicals (a series of tests over 1–2 weeks to assess what is happening with Josie’s neurological system).

Support needed: Funds to cover medical costs from the Mayo Clinic ‘cos it’s bloody expensive ($20,000–$30,000 USD, $29,000–$43,000 NZD).

Why donate: a) Josie is awesome. b) Money will pay for tests to see if she can be more awesome. c) You’ll get a week of caffeine detox absolutely free if you give your coffee money to Josie instead. d) Josie promises to make a very amazing music video to thank you for your monies.

THE FULL STORY

Okay, so some things are obvious right? As in, the doctor can diagnose ulcers, migraines, multiple sclerosis… But some illnesses are very, very sneaky… bastards.

At the age of 12, Josie was diagnosed with Multi-focal Motor Neuropathy – a condition where neurological messages cannot travel from her brain to her muscles, and the muscles atrophy (degenerate). Josie has faced increasing difficulties as her muscles have grown weaker. Daily tasks such as opening a jar, cutting her food and walking are monumental challenges. Since that early diagnosis sensory loss has emerged as part of her symptoms, so an alternative diagnosis was given: “MADSAM” or Multifocal Acquired Demyelinating Sensory and Motor Neuropathy. But this still doesn’t quite fit the bill. Her symptoms are unique. With the help of family Josie has coped thus far… but… the reality is Josie is besieged by a condition that cannot be assessed or diagnosed correctly in NZ.

Josie is awesome. Really.

She is smart, funny, kind and wise. Josie is a scientist, an artist, a dog whisperer, and an expert Polish donut maker. She is a much loved member of our family and the wider community. But right now Josie needs help. And this time, the help has to come from halfway around the world. This is the one time you don’t want to be as special as Josie – she is the only one in New Zealand who has ever presented with these unique symptoms. We need an answer – what the bloody hell is wrong?! Her top New Zealand neurologist concurs, the only course of action is to fly this kiwi to the great U.S of A, to the Mayo clinic, a world renowned medical facility. She has been fortunate to get a booking at the Mayo clinic, however, it has come at short notice – in 8 weeks time.

Josie needs funding for medical costs associated with the trip. There will be many consultations and neurological tests (hopefully no exploratory probing). This is phase one, finding out what is wrong. We hope this will lead to phase two, treatment options.

How are we helping? We are saving to cover the travel costs associated with this trip, including flights and accommodation, for Josie and her support crew of two (Dad and Tess).

How can you help? We would be very grateful if you are able to donate for medical costs to help our beautiful sister on her journey.

Aroha nui,

Tessa, Maria, Sarah

(Sisters)