Be Kind Help Fund Niki's Spine

Niki Morella Valencia was raised to have a strong backbone, be independent and work hard for what she needed but now her physical body can’t keep up with her spirit. Niki was in a work-related accident almost 18 years ago that broke her back. It shattered her spine in multiple places-landing her, in pain and paralyzed in the hospital for almost a year. But Niki just doesn’t give up and after a lot of hard work, titanium rods and a positive attitude, she was able to walk again.

Even with her many challenges, Niki tries to stay active, but time has taken its toll, her titanium rods failed and had to be removed. Without anything to support her spinal column, her vertebrae are starting to fail. If they fail, she will lose her ability to walk again.  Thinking of her 3 kids, (Anthony 22, Sgt. Marine Corp, Kaitlynn 12 & Logan 9), she has made the decision to have another back surgery…it will be her 5th which due to multiple past surgeries and many more complications, will be her final chance for a somewhat less painful "normal" life.

Unfortunately, with Niki not being able to work, the bills are starting to pile up…so too are the items needed for her recovery… she has been making due with borrowed items but she will need a special adjustable bed and a seated walker. With a recovery time of 6 months to a year, there will be transportation costs to and from the hospital and Niki will also need extra help around the house with housekeeping and childcare - all those things are pretty expensive…we are hoping to raise $10,000 to help defer these costs.

We all know that Niki is that person…the one that you want to have in your corner, the first one to ask a neighbor how they are doing or make them a lasagna if she thinks they look hungry. She will offer up her home if you need a place to stay or help go over your resume when you are looking for a new job. Niki is a helper but now she needs our help.

Thank you and know that any little bit helps.