Gabby Wood's CRPS Journey
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On March 17th, 2016, at the young age of 10, Gabby Wood was diagnosed with a rare childhood condition called Complex Regional Pain Syndrome in her right foot, and now more recently, also in her left foot and abdominal region.
CRPS is caused by an overreaction of the central nervous system after experiencing trauma to the affected area, resulting in constant pain signals being sent between the brain and the sympathetic nerves. In Gabby's case, the specific trauma is unknown. Due to this, Gabby experiences extreme pain with all movement (especially walking), tenderness to normal light touch, and digesting food. Her pain is so intolerable that she is unable to attend school on a regular basis.
Gabby has been receiving treatment in the forms of outpatient physical therapy at the U of M, and pain management at Cleveland Clinic. However, due to her rapidly spreading condition, her lack of response to treatment, as well as a lack of specialized programs in the area, Gabby will need to spend 10 weeks, beginning June 6th, in Fayetteville, Arkansas under the care of Dr. Katinka Van der Merwe to attempt to correct this life altering, painful condition.
This treatment is not covered by insurance, however, if her body responds to the treatment, this program will treat the problem, not just help to manage the pain with pain medications over the course of her life. She is way too young to experience the pain that she is currently in 24/7, and harsh medications that only attempt to numb the pain, are not the solution.
Needless to say, the medical experiences, along with travel expenses, lodging, and 8 weeks of lost wages for Gabby's Mom, will put a large financial strain on the family.
We are seeking your help and asking that you pay it forward, in an effort to meet our goals to get the medical attention that Gabby needs. Thank you in advance for your continued prayers and support. ❤
CRPS is caused by an overreaction of the central nervous system after experiencing trauma to the affected area, resulting in constant pain signals being sent between the brain and the sympathetic nerves. In Gabby's case, the specific trauma is unknown. Due to this, Gabby experiences extreme pain with all movement (especially walking), tenderness to normal light touch, and digesting food. Her pain is so intolerable that she is unable to attend school on a regular basis.
Gabby has been receiving treatment in the forms of outpatient physical therapy at the U of M, and pain management at Cleveland Clinic. However, due to her rapidly spreading condition, her lack of response to treatment, as well as a lack of specialized programs in the area, Gabby will need to spend 10 weeks, beginning June 6th, in Fayetteville, Arkansas under the care of Dr. Katinka Van der Merwe to attempt to correct this life altering, painful condition.
This treatment is not covered by insurance, however, if her body responds to the treatment, this program will treat the problem, not just help to manage the pain with pain medications over the course of her life. She is way too young to experience the pain that she is currently in 24/7, and harsh medications that only attempt to numb the pain, are not the solution.
Needless to say, the medical experiences, along with travel expenses, lodging, and 8 weeks of lost wages for Gabby's Mom, will put a large financial strain on the family.
We are seeking your help and asking that you pay it forward, in an effort to meet our goals to get the medical attention that Gabby needs. Thank you in advance for your continued prayers and support. ❤