Relapsing remitting MS patient, David Oliver, shares his story of recovery and hope following stem cell therapy at the Stem Cell Institute in Panama City, Panama. David explains how he’s gone from not being able to get up from the couch to being drug-free and “back 100%” from multiple sclerosis.
I was diagnosed with MS in March of 2006. I was in the best shape of my life and training for the Los Angeles City Fire Department. Then, in one day…..my life drastically changed. My symptoms started with right optic neuritis and fatigue. I was fortunate to be correctly diagnosed in only 4 days and began treatment immediately.
“In short….I’ve got my life back….my kids have their dad back……and my wife has the man she knew before this terrible disease changed our lives”
I used Copaxone injections along with a number of different medications for energy, which none of them seemed to work. After my first treatment with steroids, the optic neuritis subsided, but the fatigue continued to increase. For the next three years, my days consisted mostly of sleeping on the couch and no energy to accomplish simple daily tasks. After hearing about a friend of mine having the stem cell treatment and the wonderful results, I didn’t hesitate to contact the ICM clinic and booked my airline flight. I arrived in Costa Rica on June 20th, 2009 and settled in for my two weeks of treatment. My family joined me and we had a chance to do some great sight seeing before my first day of treatment. The next two weeks flew by and my treatment was wonderful. The doctors and staff were so great and very professional. The facility was beautiful and spotless. I finished my treatment and arrived home on July 4th. Independence Day in more ways than one for me. As of now, I have been back from my treatment for over 16 months and have been feeling fantastic. My fatigue had started to diminish right after my treatment was completed and improved on a weekly basis. I started an exercise program as soon as I got back and have steadily increased the intensity. I am back to 100% !!! I can do heavy workouts. I do three mile runs in 30 minutes and I’ve even done a 30 mile ride on my indoor cycle.
In short….I’ve got my life back….my kids have their dad back……and my wife has the man she knew before this terrible disease changed our lives.
As I tell others I meet with MS……..don’t wait! The longer you wait for treatment, the more time you give MS to continue damaging your body.
Pura Vida,
David Oliver
