STEPS for SUNSHINE

ONE STEP AT A TIME … we all take just one step at a time in life. But what if we faced the loss of our ability to take one step at all … without excruciating pain? This is exactly what has happened to my friend/ family by heart - Tina Hayes. I’ve known Tina for over 40 years and I’ve witnessed her overcome many trials, tragedies and obstacles with sheer determination and hard work – not handouts. She never expected or wanted the government to take care of her and she often held down 2 jobs to provide for her family. She’s never said “I can’t” because she always COULD. She fearlessly moved herself and her family across 5 states for better opportunities. I watched her conquer surgery and rehab for a broken back and she returned to work while still in a back brace. She was determined to pull her own weight - literally. She put herself though medical training college and began a career as a certified dialysis technician. She had found her path in life … and this was her God-Given Gift. Tina loved her position and the opportunity to serve and care for her patients. She would do anything to make them smile; cracking jokes and making the painful process of dialysis as pleasant as possible. She formed a bond with her patients – and they loved her so much that they gave her the nickname of “Sunshine”. During this time she suffered from a torn Achilles tendon and several tumors in her right foot. She underwent reconstructive surgery in 2014 but was back to work as soon as she was able. While working at the dialysis clinic, she met a special man named Patrick. Tina not only cared for Patrick as a dialysis patient, but as time went on she realized that the bond between them was strong and unyielding. Yes … they fell in love. But their story is larger than life. Since Patrick was dependent upon dialysis, Tina began a quest to find a match for him – a new kidney! She was determined and she never gave up. Patrick received that new kidney in August of 2017. She was his caregiver during many uncertain months and continues to ensure that he follows a strict regimen for optimal health … even though her own health is suffering at the time. After an injury at work in May of 2016, Tina underwent surgery for a torn rotator cuff. She faithfully went through the rehab and looked forward to regaining the use of her arm and mobility so she could return to her work. Through an error made via worker’s comp, Tina was prematurely sent back to work where she sustained a secondary injury to the same shoulder. This was a devastating blow for her but she was still determined to get better. She has not been able to return to her career since she was not able to lift the required weight. She took a minimum wage job as a restaurant hostess but was unable to stand on her aching feet for the full shift, and was forced to resign. Tina is strong, independent, determined and even somewhat stubborn. She is a little rough around the edges and speaks her mind, but she is one of the most genuine people I know and this is part of her unique character. Tina has taken care of people most of her life. And now I would like to help her - with your assistance. She is facing 3 surgeries that she needs immediately. Once again, her right foot has numerous tumors; and the doctor has advised that the Achilles tendon was cut too short during the original surgery and must be extended. Her left foot also has numerous tumors that must be removed, as well as a repair to the Achilles tendon which is also torn. BOTH feet have bone spurs that will be removed. Tina has pushed through and tried to function with all of this pain for many months. She can no longer walk without excruciating pain In addition; doctors have found a bone spur in her nasal structure which is making it extremely difficult to breath and sleep. She is scheduled for surgery in late October to repair this blockage. Doctors have determined this surgery takes priority since Tina has lived with emphysema for three years. She needs our help to meet the deductible and the co-payments for the surgery center, the surgeons, pathologists, radiologist, physical therapist, pharmaceuticals, etc. She pays for a private medical insurance policy and is not on government assistance. If you are able, I feel I can speak for Tina in saying she would be grateful beyond measure. No amount is too small – You can make a difference. All she wants is to get better so she can return to work. The medical bills are overwhelming and she is terribly concerned and depressed with all she is facing … as any of us would be. Tina will not ask for your help … but I am asking you to see with your heart … andHelp Sunshine get the surgical procedures required to take those pain-free steps again so she can have her life back. STEPS for SUNSHINE … Together we CAN HELP … Together we can make a difference in Tina’s future!