The jury is out on whether Dr. Paolo Zamboni?fs liberation procedure will provide a major solution for sufferers of multiple sclerosis,
including Bob Hunter of Renfrew.
But Hunter is headed to Costa Rica this January, with wife Judy, to undergo the procedure at an estimated cost of more than $15,000.
It creates a financial hardship for the Hunters, but Leanne Stubinski, Renfrew Royal Canadian Legion bartender and long-time branch member,
is organizing a Nov. 20 fundraiser for the couple.
When she heard about the Hunters?f plans, she called Judy to see that it was okay to organize the fundraiser.
Much positive press has been followed by several European studies that have poured cold water on the procedure that first publicized
about a year ago. Meanwhile, the Saskatchewan
government has committed $5 million to clinical trials on the vein-widening
procedure initially proposed by Italian vascular surgeon Zamboni.
Hundreds, if not thousands, of patients have travelled outside Canada, to such
countries as Bulgaria, Poland and Mexico, for the procedure since it
was first publicized. Websites are also full of postings by people who have
undergone the surgery and are reporting significant improvements.
Hunter, whose MS was diagnosed 15 years ago, worked in hardware sales across eastern Ontario,
but doesn?ft work now. He?fs confined to a wheelchair, but is cheerful and
displays a sense of humour.
He moved with his wife and two boys, then seven and 12, to Renfrew about 25 years ago.
Hunter recently underwent vascular testing in Barrie, Ont., to see if he qualified for the liberation procedure.
His surgery is scheduled for Jan. 11 in Costa Rica.
Dr. Zamboni, of Italy, says multiple sclerosis is related to narrowed veins in the neck and spine, a condition that he has coined
CCSVI (chronic cerebrospinal venous insufficiency). Now research projects are
underway, including one between the University
of Saskatchewan and the University of British Columbia, to investigate the
relationship between CCSVI and MS. Zamboni says the veins draining from the
brain are malformed or blocked, resulting in a buildup of iron in the brain
that causes neurological symptoms.
In the Journal of Vascular Surgery, Zamboni said 50 per cent of MS patients had no attacks in the 18 months following his procedure.
Hunter calls himself a private person who doesn?ft like to broadcast family matters in the public. But he says he appreciates the efforts
of those spearheading the fundraiser.
?gYour family is always affected by it (multiple sclerosis) ?c It creates problems if you let it get to you,?h admits Hunter, who used to play
hockey and officiate local games.
He?fs also a Renfrew Junior B Timberwolves executive member who says he hopes to be more active following the procedure.
?gI once had a tremendous vocabulary,?h adds the 65-year-old. ?gIt affects your thought process.?h
The various definitions of MS include a chronic disease of the brain and spinal cord characterized by changes in sensation, visual problems, weakness,
depression, difficulties with coordination and speech, impaired mobility and
disability.
?gIt?fs not just me that wants to do this for Bob,?h says Stubinski.
?gIt?fs other members of the community, too, including members of the Rusty Blades. A lot of people want to help out.?h
Food and entertainment is being provided free by various contributors for the Saturday, Nov. 20 fundraising dance. The doors open at 7
p.m. Entertainment starts at 8 p.m.
The $10 admission tickets are available from the Legion, Rusty Blades members or at the door.
The Multiple Sclerosis Society of Canada estimates about 65,000 Canadians have MS.
http://www.yourottawaregion.com/news/article/900768--liberation-please