In 2009, after my kidneys failed as a side effect of taking a prescription medication, my doctors took me off all medications that could affect my kidneys, including Naproxen, which I had taken for several years, and suddenly I could barely walk. By early 2010, I required a walker and in 2012, I started using a power chair. My weight continued to increase as my mobility decreased and once I was confined to the power wheelchair, ballooned to over 450 lbs.
In 2015, I had major surgery that resulted in my being confined in a rehabilitation center against my desires and having to deal with congestive heart failure. I realized just how quickly I could lose my independence and decision-making abilities and I determined that somehow, someway I had to lose weight.
For 12 years I was aware of bariatric surgery as an option, but my insurance would not cover it and I couldn’t afford to self-pay. In 2016, we followed our first grandchild out to Kansas and bariatric surgery became available to me. I signed up and, in December 2017, had a gastric bypass performed.
That was almost three years ago, and it changed my life. Not only have I 150 lbs. and gained so much flexibility, but I am also slowly becoming more mobile. It has not happened as quickly as I would like but there are tools that would assist me in becoming more mobile and reaching a sustainable weight.
I am currently trying to save to purchase a lightweight foldable power wheelchair which will seriously help me to regain my mobility. Right now I have to choose between using a power wheelchair or a rollator walker, and I usually have to choose the power wheelchair over the walker because I cannot take both. The lightweight foldable wheelchair can be used as a walker as well and will help me take advantage of many more opportunities to walk instead of ride and will assist in building strength, endurance and balance so I can gain full mobility again.
My vehicle is very old and died recently. I am forced to take public transportation in order to keep working, which is somewhat unreliable and the customer service leaves a lot to be desired. I desperately need another vehicle with hand controls so I can continue to drive and keep my independence, continue to work full-time and keep medical appointments, and I want to be able to shop, visit playgrounds and spend time with my young active grandchildren.
My family and friends are helping me raise money for the nonprofit Help Hope Live to fund uninsured medical expenses associated with Catastrophic Illness.
I have chosen to fundraise for Help Hope Live in part because Help Hope Live assures fiscal accountability of funds raised and tax deductibility for contributors. Contributors can be sure donations will be used to pay or reimburse medical and related expenses. To make a tax-deductible donation to this fundraising campaign, click on the Give button.
For more information, please contact Help Hope Live at 800.642.8399.
Thank you and may God bless you for your support!
