Hi, my name is Karlene; on Dec. 16, 2021, my family's life was turned upside down. Due to a respiratory infection, I was intubated and put on life support, which eventually led to the amputation of my fingers and toes. For this new chapter my family and I are about to partake in, we ask for financial assistance for prosthetic hands and toes, medical equipment and other needed devices. These devices will better equip me to return to the things I love! Taking care of my two young boys (Hezekiah 6 and Israel 2), cooking, being a photographer and being very active in my church. In counseling with orthotic fitter Cal Keegan and his recommendations, we understand what may be needed to satisfy my needs in using my hands and feet. It will be a long process with many different devices and many different medical needs in order to reach my ultimate goal. Luckily we know all things are possible through Christ!

We appreciate any help you can give, and we are most thankful for your prayers.

Hello there!

My name is Cal Keegan and I am an Orthotic Fitter assisting Karlene get acquainted with her new living situation. We began our relationship several weeks ago when her hospital therapists called me to help evaluate Karlene for orthotic devices that could potentially help her situation. Since then, her medical condition has changed significantly and we are now in the process of determining what prosthetic devices would help her the most. As you are all aware, she has had several procedures and treatments with her hands and feet that will, and have, permanently changed her life. We are now at the stage where insurance authorization and coverage significantly determine the quality of the devices that would considerably improve her quality of life. Also, to be able to get back to the things she loves doing most; cooking for her family, photography, and keeping up with her two young boys. The problem with many upper extremity prosthetics is that insurance companies will only cover certain devices that are considered functional: meaning there are dynamic features or moving pieces that provide a specific function. However, many people like to have cosmetic prostheses that mimic a natural extremity, along with their functional counterparts for certain occasions, or even everyday use, depending on the need. It helps with overall confidence and mental health when dealing with what we would still consider a traumatic amputation experience. These devices can cost anywhere from $1,000-$10,000, depending on the technology or features involved in the design. There are also the aspects of parts needing replacement over time and unexpected damage that may occur when using them. We are still attempting as much coverage as we can get through insurance but there will inevitably be more uncovered costs associated with acquiring the prostheses. This is why we are asking for your assistance in helping cover the remaining costs that will fall on Karlene and her family.

Thank you for your consideration and have a blessed day!

Sincerely,

Cal Keegan, CFO