Help Ms Ustinoff Walk with the IDEO

Following emergency hip replacement surgery in February of 2014, I realized that my leg was numb below the knee and that I had no use of my left foot.  The surgeon said, "You will get better" and I didn't. Three months later he said, "You need to find your happy place." There is no happy place when the peroneal nerve has been severed. I was fitted with an orthotic that allows me to "walk" with a cane but causes extreme discomfort.  I am unable to ride comfortably in a car or walk for more than thirty minutes. The loss of mobility and the psychological effects from this life changing event caused the counselor in me to seek out an on line support group for foot drop.  It was there I heard about Ryan Blanck, the creator of the IDEO, or Intrepid Dynamic Exoskeletal Orthosis.  This custom orthosis was once only available for the military but now is a product of the Hanger Clinic in Tacoma, Washington and has the potential to help thousands of individuals. The $14,000 cost of the brace is not covered at all by our insurance, nor would the trips to Washington and the nearly three week stays in a hotel while the brace is being made and fitted for me.  The IDEO would give me back my mobility and independence and if I have to swallow my pride and ask for help, consider it swallowed.  Greg and I are appreciative of any assistance. Please like, comment and share on your Facebook page.

Thanks
Cheri Ustinoff

m.youtube.com/watch?v=NhlTjC10oq4 -This is the youtube video about the IDEO.