Mexico is a country rich in culture and history, but today we bring you a story of personal strength and resilience from a Mexican man named Francisco. Francisco’s journey, marked by a challenging ALS diagnosis, highlights the importance of family support and access to healthcare. His story provides a poignant glimpse into the lives of those affected by ALS, offering hope and inspiration amidst adversity.
Francisco
From a Small Mexican Town to the United States
Born in Durango, Mexico, in 1968, Francisco’s early life was characterized by frequent moves and a strong work ethic. He spent his youth working in agriculture before moving to the US at the age of 15 to join his father. He found success working in construction and agriculture, eventually becoming a permanent US resident. He married his wife, Rocío, and they raised two daughters together, despite the challenges of long distances separating them for extended periods.
The Onset of ALS Symptoms and the Search for Answers
In 2022, while working in Ohio, Francisco began experiencing troubling symptoms. Slurred speech, clumsiness, tremors, and cramps disrupted his daily life. Initial medical consultations attributed his symptoms to fatigue or stress, even suggesting ADHD. However, his wife’s persistence led them to seek further medical opinions.
Facing an ALS Diagnosis
After a series of tests and specialist visits, Francisco received a devastating diagnosis: amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). The news was a profound shock, but Francisco and his wife faced it with courage and determination. Due to the high cost and limited availability of medication in Mexico, they decided to seek treatment in the United States. This decision necessitated a move to El Paso, Texas, where they navigated the complexities of the US healthcare system.
Francisco and Rocío
Finding Support and Hope in the US
The move to the US was a turning point in Francisco’s journey. They secured access to social security, disability benefits, and crucial medications like RADICAVA® (edaravone), which has been shown to slow the progression of ALS. Francisco embraced a rigorous treatment regimen that included physical, occupational, and speech therapy. He learned to communicate using a tablet and remained committed to following medical advice.
The Importance of Family and Perseverance
Throughout his ordeal, Francisco’s family has been his unwavering source of strength. His wife, Rocío, retired from her teaching career to become his full-time caregiver. Their daughters and grandson provide constant love and support. Francisco’s story underscores the vital role of family in coping with chronic illness. Despite the immense challenges of living with ALS, Francisco maintains a positive outlook. His story is a testament to the power of resilience, the importance of family, and the enduring spirit of hope in the face of adversity. He faces each day with the same unwavering determination that defined his earlier life, proving that even in the face of adversity, life continues to be a journey worth living.
This content is sponsored by Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma America, Inc. (MTPA) and is intended for US audiences only. Any other present or future content posted by the contributor, not expressly designated as “Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma America, Inc. – sponsored content” is not associated with MTPA. Francisco is an actual patient who is taking RADICAVA ORS® (edaravone).
Please see Important Safety Information below and full Prescribing Information at Radicava.com.
IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION
Do not receive RADICAVA (edaravone) or RADICAVA ORS (edaravone) if you are allergic to edaravone or any of the ingredients in RADICAVA and RADICAVA ORS. Before you take RADICAVA or RADICAVA ORS, tell your healthcare provider about all of your medical conditions. What are the possible side effects of RADICAVA and RADICAVA ORS? These may include serious side effects, such as hypersensitivity (allergic) reactions and sulfite allergic reactions. The most common side effects include bruising, problems walking, and headache. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects.
INDICATION
RADICAVA and RADICAVA ORS are indicated for the treatment of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).
For more information, including full Prescribing Information, please visit Radicava.com.
RADICAVA and RADICAVA ORS are registered trademarks of Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma Corporation.
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