Recently, my wife Jessica experienced a serious neurological event that caused her to fall and lose consciousness. At the hospital, doctors discovered she had herniated a disc in her neck at C-5 C-6. Jessica has previously struggled with back problems, and this incident has only worsened her condition. She required emergency surgery to remove the damaged disc and fuse two vertebrae. Now, at 38 years old, Jessica continues to live with chronic neck and back pain and will likely need additional surgeries for other discs, bone spurs, and related issues.

Initially, after her first hospital admission, Jessica was sent home with recommendations for physical therapy and steroids. However, given her spinal history, we realized this approach wasn’t sufficient. When her symptoms got worse, we returned to the same hospital—our only local option since her spine specialists are based at Duke University, three hours away. After two more days of pain and intensive testing, a surgeon was finally found who could perform the necessary procedure.

Throughout this ordeal and during Jessica’s recovery, she has been unable to work, and I have also taken time off to support her at home. Without any employment income, we are reaching out for help. Any support or even simply sharing our story would be deeply appreciated by our family.

Thank you in advance,

The Thomas Family