I’m creating this fundraiser for my partner, Diego, as he begins the long road of recovery following major spinal surgery.

For most of his life, Diego has used his body as a way of giving to the world. Through dance, performance, teaching, training and helping people heal, For years, he has been the person helping people become stronger, move better, heal and reconnect with themselves.

This has never simply been something Diego does. It has been his work, his passion, his creative expression and, in so many ways, his way of being of service to others.

Right now, he is the one who needs some help.

Earlier this year, an accident led to the discovery of multiple injuries throughout Diego’s spine and ultimately to major spinal surgery.

Thankfully, the surgery went well, but his MEDICAL INSURANCE DENIED coverage, leaving him to pay $15,000 out of pocket, with a long and costly rehabilitation still for the months ahead.

We are raising funds to help with the cost of his surgery, physiotherapy, rehabilitation, ongoing medical care and essential living expenses, while he is unable to work during his long recovery ahead and most importantly, so we can give him the space to recover properly without the financial pressure to return before his body is ready.

If Diego has taught you, trained you, treated you, performed for you, inspired you, made you move, made you laugh, or simply brought something meaningful into your life in any way, any contribution or share means more than you know. This is one of those moments when we have the opportunity to return some care to him.

If you’ve made it this far, thank you for taking the time to read Diego’s story and for caring about what he’s going through.

We would love for you to take another moment to visit his website, where you can read the full story of his accident, his surgery, the challenges he has faced along the way, and the road to recovery that still lies ahead.

To learn more about Diego’s journey and what your support is helping him through, please visit:

https://www.chiko-mandalamor.com/gofundme

with love and gratitude,

Amélia