A WEST Cumbrian man has undergone potentially life-changing treatment for Multiple Sclerosis (MS) in Mexico.
Sheldon Morfoot, of Thornhill, was diagnosed with the condition a few months ago, after it was discovered he had optic neuritis in his left eye.
A scan on his head revealed a number of lesions which were later found to have been caused by MS.
Sheldon began researching treatment options and decided to make the 4,500-mile journey to a treatment centre in Mexico for Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation (HSCT).
The specialised treatment aims to 'reset' the immune system to stop it attacking the central nervous system by using chemotherapy to remove the harmful immune cells and then rebuilds the immune system using a type of stem cell taken from the patient’s bone marrow.
It is only available to patients who meet certain criteria on the NHS.
Sheldon, who tragically lost his mum to the same condition in 2015, said: “I’ve seen this disease from start to finish. I’m not going down that route because it was horrendous. I wanted to get ahead.”
The 31-year-old sold his house and borrowed money from family and friends to pay the £58,000 needed to travel to Mexico and receive treatment.
A GoFundMe page has been set up and a number of fundraisers have been organised by friends to alleviate the costs. Almost £22,000 has been raised so far.
Sheldon said: “I can’t thank people enough. I can’t put into words how grateful I am. The support has made me break down a few times. The fundraising has taken the burden off me.”
He also thanked Brogan Johnston from Workington, who gave him advice and support after receiving the same MS treatment in Mexico.
Now back in the UK, Sheldon is urging other MS patients to research their options. He said: “I know it’s a lot of money but people need to really look into it as an option. The care I received in Mexico was second to none.
“I don’t know for sure if it’s worked yet because I’ve not had my next scan but I’m feeling really positive.”
To donate, go to: https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-sheldon-beat-ms
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