Melissa Tantchev

Doing it for Chris

As I write this, I can't help but feel the weight of every word, every sentiment, every moment of struggle that my husband Chris has endured in his battle with Multiple Sclerosis (MS). It's a relentless adversary, a silent thief of vitality, and a constant reminder of the fragility of life.

For those who may not know, MS is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects the central nervous system, disrupting the flow of information within the brain and between the brain and body. It's unpredictable and it affects each person differently.

Chris was diagnosed with MS at 20 years of age, and since then, our lives have been a rollercoaster of highs and lows, victories and setbacks. From the outside, he may appear strong and resilient, but behind closed doors, I witness the toll it takes on him every single day.

The physical symptoms are just the tip of the iceberg. Fatigue so crippling that even getting out of bed can feel like an insurmountable task. Numbness and tingling that creeps up unexpectedly, making every step a conscious effort. Pain that knows no mercy, a constant companion in his daily existence.

But perhaps even more insidious are the invisible scars that MS leaves behind. The anxiety that gnaws at him, wondering when the next flare-up will strike. The frustration of not being able to do the things he loves without the fear of exacerbating his symptoms. The sense of isolation that comes from battling an invisible enemy, misunderstood by so many.

Yet, amidst the darkness, there is light. Chris's resilience inspires me every single day. Despite the challenges he faces, he refuses to let MS define him. He pushes through the pain, embraces each day as a gift, and finds joy in the little moments that others might take for granted.

But he can't do it alone. None of us can. That's why I'm reaching out to you, dear friends, family, and strangers alike. I'm asking for your support, your compassion, and your generosity. Every dollar you donate will not only fund research into finding a cure for MS but also provide much-needed support and resources for those currently living with this debilitating disease.

So please, take a moment to donate whatever you can. Together, we can make a difference. Together, we can bring hope to those who need it most. Together, we can fight back against MS and show the world just how serious this disease truly is.

Thank you from the bottom of my heart.