The Need

A number of veterans have been stymied in their search for healing on their own or through traditional resources, such as provided by surgery or pharmaceuticals. In those cases veterans are forced to live with the profound consequences of being unable to heal. Pain, paralysis, and loss of mobility are a few of the challenges facing these suffering veterans.
It is from this experience that Racing for Heroes has worked toward sourcing stem cell therapy for veterans who have no other serious options.  This program has incredible potential and although we have only served a handful of veterans the success we have seen so far may show the pathway.

In Veteran of the U.S. Army Eric Ditty's case he has suffered the deleterious effects of Multiple Sclerosis since being diagnosed while in uniform. Over the past year he has received two stem cell therapy treatments. He recently was given a CAT scan and found out that the lesions in his body have reduced or disappeared (on his brain) and he is able to walk again. Listen to his story below: 
Interview with Eric Ditty about his experience with stem cell therapy and dealing with MS.

What are Stem Cells?

Stem cells are the body's raw materials — cells from which all other cells with specialized functions are generated. Under the right conditions in the body or a laboratory, stem cells divide to form more cells called daughter cells.
These daughter cells either become new stem cells (self-renewal) or become specialized cells (differentiation) with a more specific function, such as blood cells, brain cells, heart muscle cells or bone cells. No other cell in the body has the natural ability to generate new cell types.

Stem Cell Source

Racing for Heroes' partners only use Perinatal stem cells. Researchers have discovered stem cells in amniotic fluid as well as umbilical cord blood. These stem cells also have the ability to change into specialized cells. Amniotic fluid fills the sac that surrounds and protects a developing fetus in the uterus. Researchers have identified stem cells in samples of amniotic fluid drawn from pregnant women to test for abnormalities — a procedure called amniocentesis. 

Please consider helping us fund this program by earmarking your donation "Stem Cell" and provide a life saving opportunity to a veteran in need!