In August 2004, Sara Johnson was diagnosed as having multiple sclerosis.

Four years ago, she was running 4 miles a day. Today, she uses a cane daily.

About a year ago, she started a new medication to help slow the progression of MS. She went from about 150 pounds to 110 pounds.

Johnson’s immune system is attacking her central nervous system. But she’s about to undergo an experimental procedure that could change her life.

Doctors at Northwestern Memorial Hospital in Chicago are going to try to “reboot” her immune system with a hematopoetic stem cell transplant.

The procedure costs $125,000. Her insurance, through her husband’s work as a union carpenter, has agreed to pay for a majority of the costs.

Johnson and her husband, Thomas, have four children. To help with the costs, her friends and family are hosting a fundraiser from 5 to 9 p.m. Saturday at the Aberdeen Elks to help cover the costs of the procedure not covered by insurance. Tickets for the taco/baked potato bar will be available at the door for $15 per person.