Tracy has Advanced Basal Ganglionic Cortico Degeneration. This is a very advanced form of Parkinson’s where her muscles are continuously contracting and she is not able to perform normal functions such as speech, walking, or even sleep.

We tried all of the usual drugs including synthetic versions of dopamine, every known form of neurological stimulant, and surgeries including tendon extension surgery on her hands to improve grip strength.

In addition we researched deep brain stimulation through the National Institute of Health and the Booth Gardner Research Center. However the location and intensity of rapid onset Parkinson’s make deep brain stimulation a non viable technique.

Finally, we have researched stem cell transplants for various patients and have concluded that this is the most viable option left to improve her quality of life.

Currently it takes approximately $25000 for 3 treatments of adult stem cells harvested from Tracy’s own body to start the process of regeneration of connections in her brain. There are several centers that specialize in this, but so far StemGenex appears to have the best research and development process. But currently their process is not FDA approved and treat symptoms but guarantee’s no results.

Other processes that offer hope include stem cells that produce ganglionic tissue that is then inserted into the brain, or stem cells generated from oocytes from the human egg that has not been fertilized. Check out the link below:

https://parkinsonsnewstoday.com/2018/07/26/stem-cells-promising-parkinsons-therapy-special-issue/

The first process is currently undergoing approval through the US Food and Drug administration. See abstract below:
This autologous cell therapy is entering the regulatory approval process this year with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to begin to transplant the cells in the following 1 to 2 years.

Join us in our fight to help Tracy’s quality of life improve and continue a foundation whose goal is to erradicate this disease.