Three months ago, Mitchell Bumgardner’s biggest problem physically was a lack of coordination. Today, the 28-year-old Warsaw resident has watched his entire life be flipped upside down after being diagnosed with multiple sclerosis.

(Photo provided)

The disease, is both unpredictable and often disabling. MS attacks the central nervous system, disrupting the flow of information within the brain and between the brain and body. For Bumgardner, the disease has limited his ability to see, speak and even walk.

“MS effects everyone in a different way,” explained Bumgardner. “Three months ago, I was fine — I had MS and was a little clumsy but I thought that was just part of me being me. Within two months, I was terrible. I had to buy a cane to walk, I’m not even thirty yet. It was hard, just being diagnosed, just buying a cane and walking through Walmart… I was definitely self-conscious.”

When describing Bumgardner, friends state he is funny, helpful and lighthearted. The soft-spoken, unassuming man has been known to be a friend and family to those in his life. Though his humility is tangible from a simple conversation, Bumgardner is now in a position where he must ask others for help — or risk losing everything.

Unable to work until cleared by a neurologist Bumgardner, who was not eligible for insurance through his employer or the government, is facing serious medical bills and personal expenses he cannot currently afford. Though he has applied for Medicaid and Social Security, the process will take time that Bumgardner does not have.

“I hate to be the person standing before you asking for money, but as a matter of survival I am,” writes Bumgardner on his GoFundMe.com page. “I come to you because I risk loosing everything. I was supposed to get my daughter for a month. I have come to terms with that not happening. I am scared of loosing my vehicle and the insurance. I currently have like $5 to my name. I risk not having money for my doctor’s appointment or gas to the neurologist. Unfortunately I cant work until I am cleared which is at least going to be a couple of weeks.

“I am sorry to ask you while I am like this. Any little bit helps.”

Though Bumgardner’s treatments will help manage his illness, he admits there will be no way for him to get back to where he use to be, a fact he admittedly struggles with. Despite the fact Bumgardner has become very limited as a result of his illness, he notes he tries to stay positive and is incredibly thankful for those who have helped him thus far.

“There are times I get down and out, I understand people have it way worse than me…I’m trying to stay positive, I do everything I can to stay positive. I never imagined so many people did care for me. For the last couple of years, it has just been me. Even giving $5, that is someone thinking of me. It means just as much as those who gave more. It is crazy thinking that could be someone’s last $5.

To help support Bumgardner and his fight against MS, visit his GoFundMe page here.