According to a story from patch.com, the life of Jasmine Matthews has been defined by the sport of basketball. “Jazz” first gained fame for her skills on the court when she lead her Marian Catholic High School to the quarterfinals for three years. She continued her success as a player at Bowling Green University. She is now 26 years old and was recently hit with a major diagnosis: multiple sclerosis. Her severe case has robbed her of her walking ability and has forced her to put her ambitions of being an NCAA ref on hold.
About Multiple Sclerosis (MS)
Multiple sclerosis is a neurological disease which is characterized by damage to the myelin sheath, a fatty, insulating, protective covering that surrounds nerve cells and allows them to communicate effectively. Although a precise cause has not been determined, multiple sclerosis is considered an autoimmune disease, in which a certain trigger, such as an infection, may cause the immune system to mistakenly attack healthy tissue. Smoking and certain genetic variants are also considered risk factors for the disease. Symptoms include blurred vision, double vision, blindness in one eye, numbness, abnormal sensations, pain, muscle weakness, muscle spasms, difficulty speaking and swallowing, mood instability, depression, loss of coordination, and fatigue. There are a number of treatments available for the disease, but no cure. Life expectancy for patients is slightly reduced. To learn more about multiple sclerosis, click here.
Jasmine’s Story
Determined to regain her strength and ability, Jasmine is currently undergoing intense physical therapy sessions and workout routines. The ultimate goal is to regain enough strength to get a stem cell transplant, which has the potentially to cure or at least significantly improve her condition. However, another challenge is the immense cost of the operation, which her insurance refuses to cover. Nevertheless, she remains undeterred and has kicked off a GoFundMe in order to pay for the transplant.
In recent months, Jasmine has been making some progress in her recovery. Whether its the physical therapy, her cytoxan treatments, her recent decision to become a vegan, or even divine intervention, the improvements are undeniable.
If you would like to donate for Jasmine’s operation, click here.
