On December 24, 2009, I experienced a traumatic fall breaking multiple vertebrae and rupturing multiple discs. I pursued less invasive procedures and rehabilitation therapy allowing me to continue to work for a period of time. As my spine continued to deteriorate, I was eventually diagnosed with an incomplete spinal cord injury at T10-T11 resulting in partial paralysis in my lower extremities. Since my initial injury in 2009, I have experienced complications requiring 7 surgeries on my spine. The injury along with subsequent complications and multiple surgeries has resulted in the progression of my paralysis and loss of functional mobility. Though you all know me as fiercely independent and career driven, this injury has taken away my independence and my ability to pursue my career. I continue to look for employment opportunities but to date, have been unsuccessful. I have continued to work at the The Institute for Rehabilitation and Research (TIRR) to regain strength, utilizing knowledge and technology to assist in creating new pathways and muscle memory which will hopefully allow me to walk again and regain some independence.
As you can imagine, the cost of my care over a decade long recovery process has been extreme, more extreme than I could have imagined or financially planned to experience. Even with insurance, I have been faced with overwhelming out-of-pocket expenses, such as home and vehicle modifications to accommodate my wheelchair, ongoing rehabilitation therapy beyond what is covered by insurance, the need for full-time caregivers since 2015 as well as specialized medical supplies.
As I continue this journey, I have found myself in need of ongoing financial assistance and I am asking for your help.
My work and colleagues have always been important to me and both have supported me through this process. My church family have continued to offer love and prayers and ensured my involvement in our community. And my friends have walked with me through the good, the bad and the ugly. They continue to encourage hope and believe in my ability to persevere.
Donations to Help Hope Live can help ease the financial burden I’m facing and give me the chance to live my life as fully as possible.
I have chosen to fundraise with 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 for your support!
