Through determination, hard work and a positive outlook I have been able to make considerable progress in the last six months. I have started attending a highly specialized rehabilitation program called SCI FIT three days a week. Each time I attend my body is tested to its limits as I am out of my chair for the entire 2-3 hour session. My legs are forced to bear weight, increasing bone density in addition to increasing blood flow and circulation. This is huge for me because it’s prepping my body for what it needs if I one day walk again. I would like my old life back. I am a survivor, not a victim. And I am determined not to let these unfortunate circumstances define me.

Even with insurance, I face many uninsured injury-related expenses such as: monthly rehab ($2,000 a month), durable equipment such as an FES bike ($28,000) and a modified van which will help bring me into the community as an independent individual. The above are all in addition to normal co-pays and deductibles and monthly medical supplies. Recent statistics from the Centers for Disease Control indicate that lifetime out-of-pocket expenses for those with a spinal cord injury range between $500,000 and $3 million.

To assist with these uninsured expenses, a fundraising campaign in my honor has been established with HelpHOPELive, a nonprofit organization that has been assisting the transplant community for more than 30 years. In 2000, they expanded their mission to include those who have sustained a catastrophic injury. All contributions are tax-deductible, are held by HelpHOPELive in the Southwest Spinal Cord Injury Fund, and are administered by HelpHOPELive for injury-related expenses only. Please consider making a contribution by clicking the DONATE NOW button.

Thank you in advance for all of your love and support – together we will make a difference.

Rebecca