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My name is Hannah Leathers. I am an ex ultimate frisbee player, an artist (tattoo and visual), and an ultimate organizer. My ultimate career was cut short in 2017 starting with bilateral hip labral tears; since then, I have had five orthopedic surgeries -- two hip labral reconstructions, one ACL reconstruction, and two knee arthroscopies in the span of 2.5 years. In 2017-2018, I spent 11 months recovering from my labral reconstructions. The first ultimate tournament I returned to play in, I tore my ACL. Two years and three knee surgeries later, I am still unable to complete daily activities without pain, including but not limited to walking 30+ mins, taking care of my dogs, lifting heavy objects, walking up and down stairs, etc. I have not been able to run, or return to any sport. My recovery process has transformed from an expectation of a temporary disability, to wondering if it will be a permanent one. It has taken an extremely heavy toll on my life, my mental health, my relationships, etc.
My case has stumped many physical therapists and orthopedic surgeons. As what feels like a last attempt to gain full ability back, I decided that it is necessary that I see some of the world’s top practitioners at the Steadman Clinic in Colorado. The doctors there suggested that I get my sixth surgery, with an attempt to remove scarring that has come back and adjusting and exploring some other potential issues. I've scheduled the surgery for January 4th, 2021.
In my career, I am an artist and independent contractor. Thus, I only have the option to gain health insurance under the ACA (thanks, OBAMA!). Through the Colorado ACA, I am unable to register for an insurance plan that covers the Steadman Clinic with under a $5,000-$7,000 out of pocket maximum. Which in non insurance speak means… I will have to pay $5,000-$7,000 for this surgery.
This expense has been the case for all of my surgeries except one so far. I’ve spent over $45,000 on the 5 surgeries, physical therapy, and other related expenses so far, which has all come out of my pocket. I am asking for your support so that I will be able to get this surgery in January and potentially heal after this long journey of injuries and surgeries. Donations will cover the cost of surgery, travel and lodging expenses to stay near the hospital, and a few weeks off of work for recovery.
Thank you all so much!
My case has stumped many physical therapists and orthopedic surgeons. As what feels like a last attempt to gain full ability back, I decided that it is necessary that I see some of the world’s top practitioners at the Steadman Clinic in Colorado. The doctors there suggested that I get my sixth surgery, with an attempt to remove scarring that has come back and adjusting and exploring some other potential issues. I've scheduled the surgery for January 4th, 2021.
In my career, I am an artist and independent contractor. Thus, I only have the option to gain health insurance under the ACA (thanks, OBAMA!). Through the Colorado ACA, I am unable to register for an insurance plan that covers the Steadman Clinic with under a $5,000-$7,000 out of pocket maximum. Which in non insurance speak means… I will have to pay $5,000-$7,000 for this surgery.
This expense has been the case for all of my surgeries except one so far. I’ve spent over $45,000 on the 5 surgeries, physical therapy, and other related expenses so far, which has all come out of my pocket. I am asking for your support so that I will be able to get this surgery in January and potentially heal after this long journey of injuries and surgeries. Donations will cover the cost of surgery, travel and lodging expenses to stay near the hospital, and a few weeks off of work for recovery.
Thank you all so much!