Charles McMurray Medical Fund

My nephew Charles is 19 years old & will soon be facing the most difficult challenge of his life. Born with scoliosis, his condition has progressed & worsened rapidly after a recent growth spurt, which will now require complicated surgery & extensive therapy for the next 12+ months.

After graduating High School last year, he set off on his journey to travel the world & live life to the fullest. His first stop, working on a farm in Hawaii, was cut short due to severe pain & the rapid decline of his health. Upon his early return, my sister immediately began researching & finding the best specialists, for which after their 7-month journey, she has found. Two skilled surgeons that will duly perform a very difficult & complex surgery to try & correct most of his 65+ degree curve that is now effecting his fine motor skills, quality of life & if not treated, his heart, lungs & other vital functions. This procedure will take 9+ hours as they manipulate most of his spinal column, fusing the bones & securing it with titanium rods, plates & screws. The chance of blood transfusions & other complications during the surgery is high & for that, we ask for your fervent prayers. They may also need to perform an additional procedure that would require his ribs being broken & used in the fusion as well.

Although he & my sister have kept this private until now, our family is aware of the great need that they will both be facing before, during & after his surgery that is scheduled for 9/11/17. After spending over 8+ days in the hospital, he will begin a painful recovery at home, until he is able to begin therapy approx. 6 weeks after the procedure.

We have no doubt that they are loved & thousands of prayers & well-wishes will flood them during this process, but we are also giving those that are now aware of this crisis, a chance to give back in a tangible way. There will be many uncovered medical costs & out of pocket expenses over the next year, as well as my sister having to take a significant time off work to care for him.

Although we are hopeful Charles will make a full recovery, he will experience limitations for the rest of his life, even after the surgery. He is an exceptional young man with the brightest attitude.  Even through his pain & declining health, he has hope for a better future after his recovery.  Many who know my sister, know that she's spent her career giving back to those who need it most. Now it’s our turn to pay it forward to them. From our family to yours, thank you in advance for your monetary gift that will forever be a blessing.