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Help Sam & Winstapup get Back2Back care

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Hey, Sam here.

To say I struggle to ask for help when I need it is the understatement of a lifetime. I can't hide from my current struggles any longer and I, we, need some help. So, thank you for taking the time to read this. 
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For those who haven't been following Winstapup and myself, luck hasn't been on our side. We're both suffering from spinal problems and (un)lucky for me I'm the one who needs surgery ASAP.

I'm currently suffering from cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM) which means the two herniated discs in my cervical spine are compressing my spinal cord. What does it feel like to me to have CSM? I'm having excruciating burning pain, tingling that goes all they way down to my feet, numbness down my back, and weakness in both arms.  My surgeon said that if any more damage is done to my spinal cord I could lose feeling or movement in my arms and/or legs. I am required to have a double disc replacement at C3-C4 and C4-C5 whether I want to or not. 

A surgery date has been set for 9/5/19 and the reality of it all is heavy. Its not just emotionally but financially challenging.

I have $2,200 left of my deductible on top of owing 30% of the totally cost of surgery. The surgeon estimated my out of pocket is going to be around $9,000... that doesn't include bills of necessity such as rent and general cost of living expenses. Recovery time is estimated to be at least 2 weeks. That's 2 weeks of unpaid time off... but what other choice do I have? It needs to be done.

As for the cutest squishy face, my four legged best friend, has what is called Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD). IVDD is a condition where the cushioning discs between the vertebrae of the spinal column either bulge or burst (herniate) into the spinal cord space. These discs then press on the nerves running through the spinal cord causing pain, nerve damage, and even paralysis. We've already landed ourselves in the emergency vet, had multiple follow ups, diagnostic testing, and he now even has a daily medicine regimen. About $2,000 later, we've decided conservative treatment might not just prolong surgery, but could eliminate it all together.

This treatment will need not just frequent visits with our primary vet but with a neurologist as well for pain management. Conservative treatment means continuous therapy including acupuncture and water rehab to hopefully avoid him having spinal surgery. Just to walk in the door for therapy its about $300, then $80 per treatment. As for his monthly meds and lab work we're looking at another $250/ month. That isn't including actual the cost to see the primary vet and specialist.

To sum it all up, life hit us both hard and I need help. Even your emotional support, texts, calls, and visits while recovering are extremely appreciated. Winston walkies also welcome! 


Thank you to those who have been my main support thus far and to those who read this and are able to help us in any way you can. 

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    Organizer

    Samantha Moawad
    Organizer
    Torrance, CA

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