A New Grip on Life
In June 2025, John had been living with essential tremors for nearly 15 years.
The uncontrollable shaking in his hands shaped every part of his day. “I got used to wearing my food instead of eating it,” he shared.
Writing legibly was impossible, and the misunderstandings came quickly.
“People immediately thought I was ignorant, unintelligent,” he said—assumptions that followed him everywhere.
Essential tremors are an incurable movement disorder, and previous treatment options had not worked for John.
But in spring 2025, he learned about a promising noninvasive option: a highly focused ultrasound.
When he asked staff at Emmaus Ministries Soup Kitchen for help, they connected him with nurse Sarah Prylinski from BUILD CDC.
From there, BUILD’s street outreach team stepped in to help coordinate testing, appointments, transportation, and even housing during John’s recovery. By removing barriers and walking alongside him during the process, the team made the care he needed both accessible and feasible.
The procedure took place in summer 2025.
Today, John’s right hand has only the slightest occasional quiver.
“It is amazing,” he said, holding out his hands to demonstrate the difference in stability. “Now, I can actually write. Before the procedure, my name looked like scratches and checks.”
John didn’t hesitate to put his renewed independence to work. For the past six months, he has been employed and stably housed in his own apartment. “I just wanted a roof over my head,” he said of his time living in temporary shelters.
“Now, I’m very blessed. And the possibilities are endless.”
BUILD’s outreach team continues to support John.
They are helping coordinate a second ultrasound to address tremors in his left hand.
“Thank God for them,” John said. “They gave me a glimmer of hope that I would be able to get better.
Their act of kindness and supporting me through everything has given me a whole new lease on life.”
From homeless to housed. From disabled to employed. This is what happens when BUILD’s team shows up, earns trust, and removes barriers.
Stories like John’s are possible because of community support.
Learn more about BUILD and how they’re creating pathways to housing, health care, and hope.