CHATHAM-KENT, Ont. -- To escape “hell,” Pam Lozon is willing to face the risk.
Plagued by multiple sclerosis — now unable to play with her son or enjoy the touch of his hair on her skin — Lozon believes her “last hope” is a controversial and unproven procedure.
With the help of her family, the Chatham woman is trying to raise $15,000 for a trip to California for the treatment that is unavailable in Canada and banned in many U.S. hospitals. She prays it will slow or reverse the disease’s ravages and give her four-year-old son Joey back the mom he deserves.
“I can’t do anything a normal mom can do, like run or stuff like that,” said Lozon, 27, who has so far raised $1,800. “I’m always so tired. There’s no energy at all. Playing with him outside without falling. Swimming. Button his shirts. Tie up his shoes. Touching his hair, I can’t feel that. I haven’t felt that since 2009.”
Lozon was diagnosed with MS, a chronic and progressive disease that attacks the nervous system, on June 3, 2009.
She has since learned of something called chronic cerebrospinal venous insufficiency (CCSVI). It’s a term developed by Italian researcher Paolo Zamboni, which refers to a compromised flow of blood in the veins draining the central nervous system. Zamboni believes CCSVI plays a role in causing multiple sclerosis.
The doctor also developed a procedure, known as Zamboni liberation therapy. Basically, it involves sending tiny balloons through affected veins to open them up and improve blood flow. The theory is that the brain and spinal cord can then begin repairing themselves or even reverse some damage.
But it is controversial. Many researchers are skeptical after being been unable to confirm if CCSVI plays a role in causing MS. The “liberation procedure” has also been criticized for having unproven benefits while possibly causing serious complications and even death.
Lozon said other treatments are also dangerous, including a pill that can cause renal failure. She added that about 150 people who have undergone the procedure with no negative side effects have contacted her through Facebook.