UPDATE:

June 10 mom had an MRI of her left hip and today (6/19), she had a follow up ortho appointment where they reviewed the results of the MRI with us. The good news is there were no signs of cancer or gout, a previous potential concern. The bad news is that she has terrible arthritis in her left hip and is in need of a hip replacement (which has been anticipated). She has to lose 40lbs and was encouraged by ortho to schedule an appointment to meet with a surgeon once she sees her weight going down consistently. She has lost 15lbs to date and we are figuring out alternative options for exercise to reduce the pain and pressure on her hip. She is in physical therapy and we are working on a membership at the YMCA, so that she can complete her PT program and walking in the pool to increase her physical activity without increasing the pain. Her nerve medication she was on has been changed and she completed a steroid round, which seems to be helping with the pain significantly. At the start of this journey she was at an 8-9 level of pain and reported a 2 today at her appointment. Standing and sitting for extended periods of time are still difficult, as is walking for more than necessary ambulation to get around the house/through an appointment/trip to the grocery store. Due to this, she remains unable to return to work. The option for a cortisone shot to her hip is available if and when the pain increases and does not subside. We are hopeful to meet with surgery in the next 3 months. 

Hi friends and family. As many of you may know, my mother has suffered from nerve pain for quite some time. In recent years, it has really taken a toll on her mobility, affecting her left leg and knee most notably. Despite this, she has continued to work and do the best she can. On Mother’s Day (May 11, 2025), she fell at work. After getting XRays and a CT scan at the hospital, we learned that her hip is deteriorating and she is in need of a hip replacement.

Since the fall, she has been pronounced unable to work. She is on FMLA with her job in hopes to return after receiving a hip replacement. She works as a Dietary Aide at Heritage Hall in Dillwyn, VA and has been a pillar for their team. We cannot schedule a hip replacement until she has met the weight loss requirements for surgery, which she is taking very seriously and working diligently toward within her abilities. She was also informed that she is not eligible for disability until she has been unable to work for one year.

In the mean time, even though she is unable to work, bills and monthly expenses do not stop. I do not know how long this process will be, but as her only child and primary financial support, it would be of great help to her and myself as we navigate this financial uncertainty. Many of you may also know that Mikey and I are in the midst of wedding planning (Nov 2025), and preparing for home buying in the next year as we will have to move out of our current home summer 2026. There is no amount too small and we are truly grateful for any support you might feel called to provide.