My name is Kathlene Dadey Negvesky, and Amy Ferguson has been like a sister to me since we met when we were five years old. As many of you reading this may know, Amy was in a catastrophic automobile accident on June 17, 2021, when, just blocks away from her home, she was T-boned by an underinsured driver.

 

As a nurse, I can tell you that the spine is an extremely delicate and complex structure, so when injuries do occur, they can be extremely serious and difficult to treat. Unfortunately, as a result of the accident, Amy suffered a concussion, skull fracture, and multiple neck fractures at the C1 and C7 vertebrae. The most concerning injury was a displaced C1 fracture.

 

Injuries to the C1 and C2 vertebrae are rare, accounting for only 2% of spinal injuries each year. However, they are also considered to be the worst possible spinal cord injury that a person can sustain. In many instances they are either fatal or cause permanent paralysis. For patients who escape those fates, treatment and outcomes for C1 and C2 injuries can be long lasting.

 

In Amy’s case, this has already proven to be true. It began with her having to endure a halo brace. A halo brace is a brace with a metal ring that is surgically secured to the head with screws that attach directly to the skull, with vertical rods that connect it to a person's shoulders. Extremely restrictive and uncomfortable, Amy had to wear it for over three months.

 

In addition, she has had five CAT scans, two MRIs, multiple X-rays, and ongoing Physical Therapy. Currently, with many long-term physical challenges still ahead of her, she can only receive four more PT sessions before the insurance stops paying.

 

As we all know, navigating the obstacles of medical insurance can be overwhelming. However, in Amy’s case it is especially important that those of us who care about her, not allow the anxiety brought about by the physical and financial challenges that she is now facing, to impede her recovery.

 

At present Amy suffers from daily migraines/headaches, chronic neck pain, and a significant limitation to her range of motion. As a result of her injuries, she has been unable to drive, work, or to live independently.

 

Amy has always cared about everyone else. She deserves to have the kindness and compassion that she has consistently demonstrated for others come back to her now when she needs it the most.

 

I am asking you to help Amy in her recovery. I promise you that she always puts her best effort into everything she does, and her recovery will be no different. She didn’t deserve this fate, but she is dealing with it with determination, commitment and a positive attitude.

 

We, who love her, appreciate your willingness to help. We will do our best to keep you all updated periodically on Amy’s evolving recovery and appreciate your continued prayers and support.