Stephani Arnette

Family and friends of Stephani Amber Arnette are raising money for the nonprofit Help Hope Live to fund uninsured medical expenses associated with Catastrophic Injury.

My name is Stephani “Amber” Arnette. I’ve been called Amber since I born. I just turned 40 and I’ve lived in Ohio most of my life. Eighteen years ago, my life was changed forever by a patch of black ice and a tree. Sadly, my best friend who was my mom lost her life. My injuries resulted in quadriplegia (paralysis of arms, legs and torso), caused by a spinal cord injury. Injuries like mine can cause chronic pain, neuropathic nerve pain, spasms, a weakened breathing system, pressure sores, in addition to the inability to walk. Every spinal cord injury is different, but I experience many of these symptoms. The hospital became my home for five months and I struggled with the desire to participate in physical therapy. In fact, it was almost impossible on most days to get me to participate. Then, when it was time to leave the hospital, I was scared! I had the support of my family and friends, but I just wanted to be left alone. I needed space and time to try to figure out this new life and how I was going to navigate in it. I’ve been a fighter my entire life, but I was letting something control me and hold me back. I finally decided it was time to fight back and when I did; I found a house where I live with minimal assistance from an independent provider, learned to navigate most of my personal care, and I found a job that I love. Most recently, I received my driver’s license! I’m excited to start driving again so I can experience freedom, increase my self-worth, and improve my overall well-being so that I can do all my favorite things freely.

Stephani has 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 for your support!