Donate to Support Sierra's Recovery Journey

I’m writing today on behalf of my best friend, Sierra, to ask for your help during an incredibly difficult time. Sierra is a 28-year-old woman who moved to Vancouver in 2020 with a dream to build her career, explore the beautiful West Coast, and, eventually, settle down and start a family. Unfortunately, her world was turned upside down in December 2024, when she was diagnosed with degenerative disc disease, a debilitating condition that has left her hospitalized, in severe pain, and facing a lifelong struggle. This disease has led to three herniated discs since December, and puts Sierra at high risk for more. It is unclear when Sierra will be able to return to work, doctors have suggested it could take up to a year or longer.

What started as a routine sick day in December 2024 quickly spiraled into something far more serious, and now, Sierra is fighting a battle she never anticipated. Her lower back discs are deteriorating, and the herniation of the L4 and L5 discs has been compressing her sciatic nerve, causing excruciating pain. This condition is often associated with aging, but Sierra’s case is unusually severe for someone her age. The pain has become so intense that it has left Sierra physically and emotionally overwhelmed. Despite two surgeries in a week, and the potential for further surgeries, her condition continues to worsen, leaving her uncertain of the future. She is currently unable sit up, walk independently, and requires 24/7 support to manage all of her basic needs due to the extreme pain.

Sierra has always been independent and determined, but now she finds herself in a position where she is unable to work, and has depleted her savings. The healthcare system in Vancouver is stretched thin, and Sierra has experienced delays and difficulties in receiving the consistent care she desperately needs. This means she is stuck in a painful limbo, unable to function on her own and uncertain about what comes next.

She’s faced mounting bills and is worried about losing her apartment and car, which are essential for maintaining a sense of normalcy. In addition to the financial burden, she’s also emotionally drained, unable to visit her family in Ottawa, who are her primary support system.

What is Degenerative Disc Disease?

Degenerative disc disease is a condition where the discs between the vertebrae in the spine start to break down over time, leading to pain and reduced mobility. This disease usually affects people in their 40s or 50s, but Sierra’s case is much more aggressive than typical cases. Her herniated discs in the lower back (L4 and L5) are pressing against her sciatic nerve, causing intense pain that’s made it almost impossible for her to function normally.

To make matters worse, her remaining discs are continuing to deteriorate, leaving her with less cushioning and greater risk for additional injuries. The recommended surgery, a Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion (TLIF), is highly risky and could potentially worsen her condition or leave her paralyzed. This is why doctors have put it off for as long as possible, hoping to avoid the need for such drastic intervention.

Despite this, Sierra continues to live with pain so severe that it’s taken away her ability to enjoy life or work. She’s been in and out of the hospital for over a month, with little support from the healthcare system due to the overwhelming demand on medical professionals. She has now been in the hospital for about a month straight and has been unable to work since the end of last year.

What Sierra Needs Help With:

Rent: To ensure she has a stable place to live while she recovers.

Car and transportation bills: Essential for her to get to and from medical appointments and keep her mobility.

Basic bills: Utilities, phone, internet, and other essential services that keep her daily life running.

Medical expenses: Costs for treatments, physiotherapy, and care that aren’t covered by insurance.

Travel expenses: She desperately wants to visit her family in Ottawa for support, but has had to cancel two planned trips due to her illness.

Debt: Accumulated expenses from not being able to work since December.

Daily needs: Household items, food, toiletries, and other essentials that have become hard to afford.

Self-care items: Things to help her mental and emotional well-being during this incredibly tough period.

Sierra’s Words:

“I never thought I’d be in this position, asking for help. I’ve always tried to handle things on my own, but the pain has been relentless, and the financial stress is overwhelming. I’m scared of losing everything I’ve worked for. But I also know that I can’t do this alone anymore. Your support means the world to me, and I truly appreciate every bit of help, whether it’s a donation, a share, or a kind word.”

How You Can Help:

Any contribution you can make, no matter the amount, will make a significant difference in Sierra’s ability to manage this incredibly difficult time. If you’re unable to donate, sharing this campaign with your friends, family, and coworkers is another invaluable way to help. Sierra needs all of us to come together and help her get through this.

We know that with the power of community and your support, Sierra can begin to heal and rebuild her life. Thank you so much for your kindness and generosity. Your support will mean everything to her.

Thank you for reading and considering supporting Sierra during this challenging time. Your help is deeply appreciated.