Hope for Uckermarkers: Stem Cell Transplantation in Mexico for Carsten!

Hope for Uckermarkers: Stem Cell Transplantation in Mexico for Carsten!

The Uckermark faces an emotional challenge that touches the hearts of many citizens. Carsten Ertel, a committed organic farmer, fights against the aggressive form of multiple sclerosis (MS). His state of health has deteriorated a lot for two years and his family is facing the scary view that he could soon be dependent on a wheelchair. This reports Uckermarkurier .

Carsten, who continues to lead his agricultural business "Liese and Daughters" with a lot of dedication, not only struggles with his illness. The situation is additionally difficult by the illness of his youngest child, who was born with Down syndrome. The stress is increasing, and with them also the concerns about the future.

fundraising campaign for life -saving therapy

family and friends have launched a fundraising campaign on gofundme to cover the costs for an autologous hematopoetic stem cell transplantation. This promising therapy could stop the progression of the MS, but is only approved in exceptional cases in Germany and is usually not adopted by the health insurance companies. Carsten has decided to use the treatment in a specialized clinic in Mexico.

The total cost of treatment in Mexico is estimated at up to 100,000 euros. This means that the approximately 50,550 euros that have been incurred for the clinic itself are not yet everything. Additional costs for flights, travel as well as the supply of its agricultural operation and animals make the financial burden enormous. But the family is not alone: So far, over 60,000 euros have been collected - the target of 50,000 euros has been significantly exceeded. The fundraising campaign is kept open to continue to provide support.

legal situation and opportunities for those affected

But not only Carsten is faced with the question of assuming costs by the health insurance companies. A current case of Bea H. shows similar challenges. It threatens to walk and is entitled to a stem cell transplant, since an immediate life -threatening situation is not necessary for the benefits of health insurance. The vdk reports that despite the difficulties, legal steps can often lead to success. In its case, the health insurance company approved the assumption of costs, which is a ray of hope and shows that fighting for its rights is worthwhile.

The autologous stem cell transplantation is discussed internationally as a promising therapy option for patients with aggressive course forms of MS. The competence network multiples sclerosis has founded a task force that has developed recommendations and information materials. Here is the most important information, including the prerequisites for such therapy that can have far-reaching effects on the lives of the affected patients.