Published
December 11, 2023
Case Study: Treating Multiple Sclerosis with Cord Tissue Stem cells
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At 61 years old, David Lyons has cultivated an enduring relationship with stem cell treatments, viewing them as an alternative strategy to combat the relentless progression of Multiple Sclerosis (MS). Serving as a self-designated guinea pig for this relatively unexplored procedure, marked by both failures and successes, Lyons emphasizes the life-changing impact of the positive outcomes. Given the absence of a cure for MS, he, driven by the urgency of time, is steadfast in his commitment to this path of healing.
On August 22, 2018, in the Cayman Islands at DVC Stem, David Lyons underwent a transformative experience, receiving 300 million umbilical cord tissue stem cells via intravenous infusion into the arm. The subsequent account of this encounter was documented in an Everyday Health column blog on October 31, 2018, just two months after returning home. Expressing both optimism and skepticism, drawing parallels to a previous stem cell treatment in 2014, Lyons delved into the nuances of a mesenchymal stem cell transplant, which yielded short-lived success, followed by the return of MS symptoms.
The removal of a left-side drop foot marked a pivotal moment, enabling David Lyons to engage in activities such as jumping off the floor and regaining sensation in the left arm. Despite initial positive responses, caution prevailed as he navigated the uncertainty of whether the newfound relief would mimic the patterns observed in 2014. While awaiting results, an unwavering commitment to physical fitness persisted, with documented feats such as squatting 500 lbs, showcasing remarkable progress, particularly in the left leg.
Months passed, unveiling an evolving journey of strength and resilience for David Lyons. By the eighth month, running on a treadmill became a reality, and by month nine, he was successfully jumping rope—a feat unattained for almost 14 years. Contentment intertwined with ambition as Lyons reveled in the newfound capabilities of his legs, acknowledging a 30% recovery in the left arm and hand. Driven by the desire to replicate the success achieved in the leg, a conversation with Dr. Louis A. Cona at DVC Stem ensued, exploring the possibility of additional stem cells to address the remaining challenges.
The unfolding narrative introduces the latest chapter in David Lyons' journey, a return to the Cayman Islands for an infusion on January 15, following the transfusion of 300 million cells in August 2018. A month post-treatment, he already experiences sensations in the left hand, a phenomenon absent since the MS diagnosis in 2014. Optimism persists regarding potential results in targeted areas, with Lyons crediting the transformative impact of the new umbilical cord tissue-derived stem cell therapy.
While not a medical professional or scientist, David Lyons seeks understanding through a statement from DVC Stem, shedding light on the ongoing registered clinical trial assessing the efficacy of IV administration of Umbilical Cord Tissue-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells for treating Chronic Inflammation and Multiple Sclerosis. The rigorous protocol involves a comprehensive assessment, including blood work, imaging reports, and vitality questionnaires at various intervals post-treatment.
As the journey unfolds, David Lyons embraces the second month post-treatment with a vision for the left arm/hand mirroring the triumphs of the left leg/foot. Armed with newfound strength, a readiness to face gym challenges, and an optimistic outlook, Lyons reflects on the transformative impact of stem cell treatments at DVC Stem in the ongoing battle against MS. Faced with the question of whether the journey is worth the cross-country and international travel, he asserts that these trips have paved the way for continued conquest over MS, emphasizing the unparalleled benefits and the absence of risk.
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