Amie's Medical Expenses
Donation protected
Hi friends,
As many of you know, I recently moved to Carrboro, NC to study at UNC-CH for my Masters in Social Work. I set a goal for myself after my move, that I would walk and run more, and generally build my physical strength. I quickly realized after trying to work out regularly and walking to and from bus stops that something was wrong.
Walking or running any substantial distance is virtually impossible for me because of an intense, pressure-filled type pain in my lower legs. By timing myself I determined that my threshold for walking is only about .25 miles, and for running about 1 mile. The pain after this threshold is so severe that I cannot continue to walk or run. I can no longer walk to the bus stop without pain, and on days when I am more active (by active, I mean standing a lot) my legs and feet become weak and numb.
At first, doctors and I had no clue what was wrong. I was told that it may be shin splints, even though I knew that was incorrect because I've had shin splints before and this pain was different. I was also told that my activity level may be causing strain on my joints, and to wear compression socks. I also knew that was incorrect. After about 6-8 months of discomfort and no clue what was wrong, I was referred to UNC Sports Medicine.
The doctor felt my lower legs, listened to my story, and confidently gave a diagnosis of Exertional Compartment Syndrome. This condition is uncommon but not terribly so, and typically affects young runners and athletes. The bad news is that the only treatment with promising outcomes is surgery. The good news is that the surgery has a high success rate. The upsetting news is that I do not have the funds for this surgery without help.
I consider myself incredibly blessed and lucky to be in the situation I am today as a full time graduate student, social work intern and research fellow. I have a wonderful partner, family, and friends who have committed to helping me emotionally and physically through this surgery and recovery. What is left is the financial aspect. After speaking with a financial counselor, my out of pocket estimated cost for surgery is $5,950. I do not have this money, and will not in the foreseeable future.
I strongly considered postponing surgery until I am in a life situation with more income and less student loans. But the more I imagined going weeks, months, or years without this surgery the more I realized that is not an option. In order to address the issue as soon as possible while having the least effect on my school and work life, I am undergoing this procedure over winter break on the 18th of December. My quality of life depends on my ability to walk without pain. Friends, I am asking for your help in raising the money for the out of pocket cost of bilateral exertional compartment release surgery. There are more costs associated with the recovery, but these are costs I will take on with help and creative budgeting.
For those of you who know me well, you know that I highly value my independence- financial and otherwise. As a social worker, it is even more difficult to ask for help because I so frequently witness situations where I perceive others as needing help more. This is hard for me, but I know I need this surgery and I know I cannot afford it without help. Thank you so much for reading, chipping in, or sharing with others! I love you all and am so grateful.
As many of you know, I recently moved to Carrboro, NC to study at UNC-CH for my Masters in Social Work. I set a goal for myself after my move, that I would walk and run more, and generally build my physical strength. I quickly realized after trying to work out regularly and walking to and from bus stops that something was wrong.
Walking or running any substantial distance is virtually impossible for me because of an intense, pressure-filled type pain in my lower legs. By timing myself I determined that my threshold for walking is only about .25 miles, and for running about 1 mile. The pain after this threshold is so severe that I cannot continue to walk or run. I can no longer walk to the bus stop without pain, and on days when I am more active (by active, I mean standing a lot) my legs and feet become weak and numb.
At first, doctors and I had no clue what was wrong. I was told that it may be shin splints, even though I knew that was incorrect because I've had shin splints before and this pain was different. I was also told that my activity level may be causing strain on my joints, and to wear compression socks. I also knew that was incorrect. After about 6-8 months of discomfort and no clue what was wrong, I was referred to UNC Sports Medicine.
The doctor felt my lower legs, listened to my story, and confidently gave a diagnosis of Exertional Compartment Syndrome. This condition is uncommon but not terribly so, and typically affects young runners and athletes. The bad news is that the only treatment with promising outcomes is surgery. The good news is that the surgery has a high success rate. The upsetting news is that I do not have the funds for this surgery without help.
I consider myself incredibly blessed and lucky to be in the situation I am today as a full time graduate student, social work intern and research fellow. I have a wonderful partner, family, and friends who have committed to helping me emotionally and physically through this surgery and recovery. What is left is the financial aspect. After speaking with a financial counselor, my out of pocket estimated cost for surgery is $5,950. I do not have this money, and will not in the foreseeable future.
I strongly considered postponing surgery until I am in a life situation with more income and less student loans. But the more I imagined going weeks, months, or years without this surgery the more I realized that is not an option. In order to address the issue as soon as possible while having the least effect on my school and work life, I am undergoing this procedure over winter break on the 18th of December. My quality of life depends on my ability to walk without pain. Friends, I am asking for your help in raising the money for the out of pocket cost of bilateral exertional compartment release surgery. There are more costs associated with the recovery, but these are costs I will take on with help and creative budgeting.
For those of you who know me well, you know that I highly value my independence- financial and otherwise. As a social worker, it is even more difficult to ask for help because I so frequently witness situations where I perceive others as needing help more. This is hard for me, but I know I need this surgery and I know I cannot afford it without help. Thank you so much for reading, chipping in, or sharing with others! I love you all and am so grateful.
Organizer
Amie Sigmann
Organizer
Carrboro, NC
