Gregs Guillian Barre Syndrome Fight

I am putting together this GoFundme page for my brother Greg Bandy. I am hoping to ease the financial burden he and his family are enduring after Greg was diagnosed with the very rare Guillain–Barré syndrome (GBS). A couple weeks before diagnosed he was healthy and working long hours as a general contractor. His wife Mary has been home taking care of their 7 month old daughter Emily and Greg was the only source of income. This is a very unfortunate time for my brother and his new family. 

Greg went to the ER at St Joseph’s hospital on Monday, March 26 after experiencing numbness and pain in his hands and feet. After a MRI, multiple blood tests, and a spinal tap it was indicated that he was diagnosed with Guillain-Barré syndrome. This illness quickly worsens if not treated and within a day of being in the hospital he lost the ability to walk. His motor skills aren’t working correctly and he is in excruciating pain constantly. My brother has become immobile and has lost 70% of strength because of GBS.

Upon being admitted into the hospital the next morning they started Immunoglobulin therapy intravenously. Greg has already completed a 6 day treatment of immunoglobulin in hopes of boosting his immune system and healing his body. His body is stiff and it’s a very slow process to get better. He is now in an acute rehab working with physical and occupational therapist several hours a day to build his strength back up so he can walk again, sit up, and even just put his shoes & socks on again.

From healthline.com, "Guillain-Barre syndrome is a rare condition in which your immune system attacks your nerves, leading to muscle weakness and even paralysis. The exact cause of Guillain-Barre is unknown, but it often occurs after a viral or bacterial infection. There’s no cure for Guillain-Barre, but most people eventually make a full recovery. Recovery can be slow, lasting anywhere from several weeks to several years."

The funds raised would be used to alleviate some of Greg’s financial stress and help pay his families monthly living expenses. It will be extremely helpful for my brother, to not have to deal with the financial burden so he can focus on rehabilitation, get better and back to work.

The recovery process for GBS is expected to take a minimum of several months to a year to be fully recovered.  Greg is staying positive and is keeping his spirits up despite his illness. Thank you to everyone for your support, whether it be a message, prayer, or donation.