Update: -09/26/2024-

After the initial creation of this request for $6000, a grant of $2000 was approved by the ALS society towards the purchase of the bed. Then a few donations brought it down to $3545, which is the price of the mattress.

Further, I am now completely immobile (I’m dictating this). My care doctors and nurses have stated that I’ve been visibly declining over the past 6 months. I’m also having an increased need for the cough assist (it mimics the way a normal person coughs) and I’ve been given a phlegm-sucking machine to help with getting it out of my throat and nose. My diaphragm is getting weaker. I’m on full-time oxygen supplementation at 5liters and contemplating a feeding tube as well because it’s getting harder to swallow. Please consider helping. Thanks.

Original request:

Hello, my name is Bill Elgin, and I'm reaching out with a heartfelt request to support me in purchasing an ALS-appropriate hospital mattress. I've been battling ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, also known as Lou Gehrig's Disease). As the disease progresses, my needs are growing, and we're doing everything we can to ensure my comfort and quality of life during this challenging time.

My symptoms have progressed quickly over the last year. Currently, I'm suffering from bleeding pressure sores, muscle atrophy, the inability to sit upright or turn my head, and have the tendency to lean to one side. Up to this point, I've only been using a recliner.

One crucial need right now is a hospital mattress that can provide the comfort and care that I need.The mattress will not only help with positioning but also significantly improve my quality of life by alleviating discomfort from the pressure sores and making daily care easier. My fiancée is the full-time sole caregiver other than an aide that helps a few days out of the week, and she has MS (Multiple Sclerosis). Whatever her own challenges, she is determined to make me as comfortable as possible.

We have tried to get the cost covered by health insurance but have been denied multiple times, even though the doctor has prescribed a fully electrical hospital bed and said mattress.

Your generous contribution will help with the purchase of:

- a new low air-loss mattress (they don't sell used ones)

We are incredibly grateful for any amount you can contribute. Your support will not only ease the financial burden but also provide a sense of relief and comfort to me during this difficult journey.

Please share this campaign to help us reach as many people as possible. Every share and donation makes a meaningful difference.

Thank you so much for your kindness and generosity. Your support means more than words can express.

With gratitude,

Bill and Christin