Help Scott fight Multiple Sclerosis

SUPPORT SCOTT'S ABILITY, despite his disability Please join me in "paying it forward".   Imagine being young, handsome and ambitious, when one day your dreams are crushed by the diagnosis of a debilitating disease of Multiple Sclerosis, a chronic and progressive neurological disease. Scott Rubenstein was only in his mid-twenties, working as a firefighter when he was given this diagnosis that causes both physical and cognitive problems - a progressive disease for which there is no cure. Although he was told he would probably be in a wheelchair within 10 years, Scott was determined and persevered to not give up.  He had to resign his position as a firefighter (a career that he loved), and transitioned into another position that his disability allowed him to function in.  For 15 more years, with great passion, he continued to work as a Certified Wine Sommelier.  About 5 years ago, the physical demands of his job forced him to resign from this job where he was greatly respected and appreciated.  During this time, he exhausted his savings to ensure the proper care of his mother with Alzheimer's  disease until she passed away 3 years ago. These events had a devastating impact on his finances and living conditions as the only income he receives is from his Social Security Disability - a fraction of his previous wages. It's extremely difficult for Scott to walk or stand and he uses a motorized scooter to accomplish activities of daily living. He struggles with extreme physical and mental fatigue, joint pain, bladder issues, concentration, memory loss and several other issues. As if all this isn't enough to handle, several months ago, Scott developed 2  blood clots in his brain which led to major seizures and a hospital stay of several days.  It was discovered that his right carotid artery in his neck is fully blocked.  Because of the MS the only thing that can be done is to take a low does aspirin daily and a cholesterol lowing drug to keep cholesterol levels down.    Despite the challenges and hardship he experiences, Scott remains positive and adamant about staying active and productive so that he can continue to contribute to our community in any way he can - even if it's on a limited basis. Life threw Scott an unexpected curve ball, and he has limited choices and options. Please contribute what you can and share with your contacts/friends and social media to help Scott  with much needed modifications in his home for his safety.  Funds will also be used to pay ongoing medical expenses, assist with co pays for his many medications, and someone to provide much needed assistance. Scott's neurologist, Dr. Le Hua, of the Cleveland Clinic Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health, has formally assessed Scott's condition as Secondary Progressive MS which has increasingly affected his physical and cognitive abilities (see Dr. Hua's letter attached).     I, Jeff Berkow, am a member of the Chabad synagogue of Henderson which is where I met Scott. Scott is a positive, compassionate individual who has given to others when he has had very little himself. He is a huge animal lover/advocate. Throughout his life he has rescued several homeless animals that he considers his family.  With the assistance of local rescue organizations who provide the needed food and supplies, he continues to foster and re-home other homeless animals who have been neglected, abandoned, abused or just unwanted until they find a safe and loving home.  He has a kind, loving and giving spirit.   He is always positive, smiling and hopeful. He is a true humanitarian, genuinely passionate about helping others in need. I have worked as a volunteer, helping people for many years. Scott Rubenstein is the most deserving case I have encountered.  Please support Scott with his desire to remain ABLE.    In Scott's words:  "It's very difficult to struggle financially and emotionally, yet I am grateful that my illness is not life threatening, only life altering.  I am grateful that my illness has brought some wonderful people into my life, many who are trying to assist, with limited resources."  All funds will be administered by the Chabad Synagogue of Henderson, a non-profit 501(c) which will send out tax receipt/thank you letters to all donors. Donations for Scott can also be sent to Chabad of Henderson 524 Carnegie St. Henderson, NV 89052  in care of Scott Rubenstein ~   Letter from Dr. Le Hua, Director, Multiple Sclerosis Program at The Cleveland Clinic Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health:  To Whom It May Concern, I am the caring physician for Scott J. Rubenstein. Mr. Rubenstein has been a patient at the Cleveland Clinic Nevada since October 6, 2011, and my patient since September 25, 2014. Mr. Rubenstein suffers from Multiple Sclerosis, a chronic and progressive neurological   disease. Mr. Rubenstein's ability to routinely perform activities of daily living are limited. Due to his disease, he has cognitive changes manifesting in poor decision making, losing his train of thought, trouble finding words, difficulty keeping track of time, and forgetfulness requiring list making. He has physical changes manifesting in gait disturbance, weakness in arms and legs, and inability to walk without assistance. He requires the use of a motorized electric scooter in order to complete activities of daily living around the home and uses an electric bed for mobility and pain issues. He is unable to work. As Multiple Sclerosis is a progressive neurological disease, Mr. Rubenstein’s medical condition is not expected to improve. Any favorable consideration that you can afford to Mr. Rubenstein would be appreciated. Please feel free to contact me with any questions or concerns or if I can be of further assistance. Le Hua,MD Director, Multiple Sclerosis Program Cleveland Clinic Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health Assistant Professor of Medicine Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine Scott as a Southern California Firefighter in the mid 1980's  Scott with Carlos on his lap and Gordie his parapelegic Pug (in is wheelchair) . "Walking" a beagle that up for adoption at a dog rescue event.