Help for Andy's Spinal Reconstructive Surgery and Recovery

Dear Friends, Family, and Compassionate Supporters,

As you know, I’m not one to ask for help, but my beloved husband, Andy, is in urgent need of a transformative spinal surgery – a 3-column osteotomy with a T9 to pelvic fusion. Unfortunately, a previous surgical error has left him with years of constant pain, decreased mobility, and a cascade of health issues that have impacted every aspect of his life.

Fifteen years ago, a surgeon fused Andy's lower back at the wrong angle, leading to a myriad of complications. He has since undergone 3 additional surgeries to address the repercussions, but the damage and pain remains. Currently, Andy is fused from L3-S1 and C5-C6, and his spine and pelvis are misaligned by about 50° from the norm. This has resulted in a 13cm sagittal imbalance, severe kyphosis, flat-back syndrome, and degenerative disc disease. His spine is essentially a hockey stick as opposed to an s-curve.

We've found a skilled surgeon at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center who can rectify this situation. The procedure involves removing all of Andy’s current hardware and performing reconstructive surgery to reset his lumbar spine to the proper angle. An 18 degree wedge will be removed from his spine so it can be bent back to the correct angle. The surgeon will then fuse his spine from the pelvis up to T9 (11 vertebrae), restoring the natural curvature. The doctor said that if this surgery isn’t done, Andy will likely lose the ability to walk and will be confined to a wheelchair in less than a year.

I've witnessed first hand the toll this condition has taken on Andy over the years. Simple tasks have become monumental challenges, but he’s continued to try to live a normal life, often doing more than his body can handle. His passion for playing guitar and woodworking has been eclipsed by pain and numbness. Andy's ability to stand and walk have significantly declined, and his ability to be an active participant in his family's life is in jeopardy.

This surgery isn't just a desire; it's a necessity for Andy's future. However, the financial burden is beyond daunting. It is a 9 hour surgery and he will be hospitalized for a week, unable to work for at least three months, requiring full-time care. Complete recovery will take at least year, with extensive physical rehabilitation throughout the coming year.

I will have to continue working, and will be unable to provide the daily care Andy needs. So we will be paying what we can to Hannah, our 19 year old daughter, so she can provide this care for him while I am at work. Hannah is graciously giving up her summer internship/work opportunities to do this so we don’t have to pay a stranger to care for him. Hopefully, Andy will be able to handle his more basic needs on his own when she returns to college.

Your generosity can make a noble and notable difference. Your donations will directly fund Andy's surgery, hospitalization, rehabilitation, and essential care.

Expenses will include:

Medical Bills/copays: $6,000

Hospitalization needs: $2000

Post operative home care: $4000

Rehabilitation/Therapies: $7500 (insurance covers limited sessions)

Miscellaneous needs: $1000

Lost Wages: $10,000

We know times are tough for everyone and any support you can offer, whether through a donation or by sharing our campaign, is deeply appreciated. Together, we can give Andy a chance to heal without worry and a future that he can a part of instead of watching from the sidelines in pain.

Thank you for taking the time to read our story and for considering supporting us on this journey. Your kindness and generosity will forever be cherished.

With heartfelt gratitude,

Andy, Jenny, Hannah, Micah and Jason

Every donation, no matter the size, will make a significant impact and will be deeply appreciated by Andy and our family. Your donations will not only support his physical recovery but will also uplift his spirits, reminding him that he is surrounded by a caring and compassionate community.

Please consider donating and sharing Andy's fundraiser with your friends, family, and social networks. Your kindness and generosity will help us navigate this challenging chapter with hope, strength, and determination.