A horrifying injury and a bureaucratic stumbling block have left our friend Cindy with a series of medically catastrophic events. For the past few years, she has lived with constant pain and limited mobility.

She is one of the kindest, wittiest, and most honest people we know and she hates asking for help. It would be a life-changer for her to know her bills and medical expenses will be covered for the rest of the year.

You may know Cindy if you grew up or now live in Huntington, Ind.; went to Ball State with her; were served by her at Johnny’s; or, more recently, from the Fort Wayne Poetry Slam. Or you may not know her at all.

In September 2022, Cindy fell, fracturing her left leg. After three months, the fracture still hadn’t healed. She was referred to an orthopedic specialist who diagnosed a non-union fracture and several torn tendons and ligaments in her ankle and foot. Maddeningly, her previous provider had missed those injuries.

In June 2023 Cindy underwent surgery to repair the fracture, ligaments, and tendons, one of which had been shredded by the jagged edge of the broken bone as she walked on it.

In December 2023, following months of prescribed physical therapy, her pain increased exponentially, becoming constant and debilitating. Three different specialists agreed that she had Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS). It is a chronic health problem causing long-lasting pain that can get worse instead of better. CRPS is incurable. Cindy’s injuries have not responded to the few treatment options available.

Any activity (even sitting with her leg down) creates excruciating pain. She can tolerate light household chores and little else. Wearing a shoe and on some days, even a sock, is too painful.

Cindy says, “My lower leg burns and throbs, especially the tendon in my ankle that’s still torn. I often feel like someone is driving roofing nails through my toes or a spike through my foot.”

Cindy hasn’t been able to work for 2-1/2 years. She lives frugally and has relied on dwindling savings. That money goes toward medical expenses, rent, phone, groceries and very little else. Cindy applied for Supplemental Security Disability Income more than a year ago. She was denied and has appealed, but in today’s climate, it is unlikely she will be approved in time to keep her afloat financially.

Please consider making a one-time or recurring contribution to help her during this difficult time. Please become part of a community that cares for those who need help.