Fred Afonin spinal disease fund

Hello Everyone,

This is my husband Fred Afonin. For the past year he has been struggling with medical issues involving his back.

We have recently learned through various testing and multiple doctors that he has Degenerative Disc Disease, Bulging and Herniated discs throughout his back, Spinal Stenosis and Facet Disease.

These are all causing debilitating pain and are getting worse daily. Fred has had to leave his job 6 months ago on his doctors order (if he continues to work, he will become paralyzed). Through the different doctors we have seen in Oregon (Dr Button, Dr Tukin, Dr Johnson), none of them are willing to do the surgery that is needed to assist Fred in getting back to a normal life. With lots of research and time spent with his back specialist (Dr Serkalow - MD/ND), we were able to find the Spine Institute in Arizona that not only specializes in Fred's conditions, they are also willing to take him on as a patient and are willing to accomplish the surgical procedure.

Over the last week we have spoken to the coordinator at the Spine Institute of Arizona who was able to provide us with the information we were looking for. After checking with our health insurance provider - Cigna, regarding our benefits, they have pre-authorized 80% coverage, and we are required to come up with the 20% remaining portion of the surgical cost before the surgery date (12/12/2013).

Fortunately, our hotel is going to be providing complimentary transportation from the hotel to the surgical center during our entire trip. Additionally, to help with saving money, we have family that will be watching our three children (Isaac, Kiprian, & Emilya) while we are in Arizona.

Here are the expenses that we will expect:
- $2,000 (100% out of pocket - Pre-operative testing: MRI Scan (previous MRI was over 6 months ago), EKG, & CT Scan)
- $4,900 (20% surgical costs)
- $300 (100% out of pocket - All medications)
- $800 (Flight for Fred & Vassa)
- $640 (GoFundMe 3% & WePay 5% of $8k)

We hoped we would be able to cover the funds ourselves, but with Fred's inability to work, and my one income for the family, only month to month bills are barely covered.

This is where we decided to desperately ask for help. This isn't something we normally do, but under the circumstances, we are reaching out to the community, friends, & loved ones to help save Fred from paralysis.

Our deadline is December 1st for $8,640. This allows enough time for GoFundMe donation funds to become available (up to 7 days) + time for a bank transfer from GoFundMe to an account where we can use the funds for payment to the Spine Institute of Arizona (up to 2 days), & enough time for travel to Arizona.

We ask that you please look within your hearts and help us in reaching our goal. Even 5 dollars from each person will make a huge difference. If you cannot donate funds, sharing our story with others, along with a prayer will help even more.

Thank you all and god bless,
Fred, Vassa, Isaac, Kiprian, & Emilya Afonin