Bionic Back for Margaret!

I need your help! I have taken the opportunity to receive a life changing surgery this November 27 on my lumbar spine preformed by a world class surgeon, Dr. Thomas Bierstedt in Dusseldorf Germany.  I am 28 years old, I currently have 3 disc herniations in my lumbar spine(L3-S1) that has resulted in loss of movement, nerve issues and loss of disc height(after surgery I could be 1” taller!).  I have struggled with chronic pain for the past 4 years and have had back pain all of my teenage and adult life.  It’s difficult for me to lift anything heavy, I can no longer run, even preforming basic stretches from physiotherapy causes flare ups in pain. I have tried many alternate therapies as well as previous surgery to no avail.  I feel very blessed to have the opportunity to have disc replacement surgery as not everyone who struggles with pain and mobility issues has any option for treatment.  



As a teenager, I began to struggle with back pain more than what would be considered normal.  When I was 25 the degeneration became serious and with it a complete change in my life. No longer was I able to work let alone walk properly or care for myself.  I did undergo surgery on my back but was warned by medical professionals it would most likely not solve my problems long term and my future functioning could continue to be impaired.



I am not able to return to work after completing my maternity leave because of my condition.  It can be difficult for me to preform normal daily activities such as housework, picking up and playing with my 18 month old son, being on my feet for a longer period of time and walking longer distances.  I can no longer play sports and I often have difficulty sleeping from pain.  Struggling with this pain has affected my social life, my relationship and my family. 



The cost of this surgery(including hospital/rehab costs, flights, hotel, meals etc...) is $75, 000.00. I would like to raise $25, 000.00 to help cover some of the costs.  I need to send payment by November 13 2018, 14 days prior to my surgery date.  This surgery is not covered by any Canadian healthcare and while I have applied for disability insurance through the government I still haven’t heard if I am eligible.  At this point in time I am not able to work and am not receiving any disability benefits. The recovery for this surgery will be 8-12 months before I am able to return to work as an electrician and be free to enjoy daily acitivities without the burden of pain and limited mobility.



This is a surgery that has been practiced in Germany for 30 years and is known worldwide for its high success rate(over 95%).  This procedure will make it possible for me to live my life more fully and give me the opportunity to the best parent I can be and a chance to live a more normal life. 



My Dad will be accompanying me on my journey to Germany to be my support person, while my mother will be looking after my 18 month old son, Wesley,  where she lives in southern Alberta.  After I return to Canada I’ll be staying with my parents for a few months to recover enough to be able to go home to Prince George where my partner, son and I live.  After I’m home I’ll continue to recover and care for my son as I get well enough to live without the restraint of severe back pain for the first time in my adult life.   



I appreciate your support, whether it be prayers, kind words, financial contributions or simply following along in the journey.  I feel so much gratitude to my family and friends for giving their time and support to help me get healthy and be the best version of myself.  I am so blessed to know so many people who care about my wellbeing and want to see me overcome this obstacle.  If you have any questions or comments feel free to ask and follow my progress on gofundme or Facebook at Margaret's Bionic Back. Thank you for giving this a read and a share, here’s to the future!