Help Katie Rebuild Her Life After Rare Spinal Stroke

Katie needs your help.

One morning in August, Katie awoke with severe back pain and nerve sensations that felt like a shock wave of fire up and down her body. She was rushed to the ER and endured excruciating rounds of testing. Barely being able to breathe on her own, Katie received the worst news of her life: she has a lesion & swelling in her spine that has left her paralyzed.

Doctors hoped it was a result of an autoimmune disorder or transverse myelitis, but after speaking to a neurologist that thoughtfully ordered more testing, it was found she had a spinal infarct - a stroke - which is extremely rare, especially for someone as young, healthy and active as Katie.

Katie’s journey is only beginning. Since being transferred out of the hospital to a rehabilitation center, she has been receiving care directed toward enabling her to recover to her maximum potential, with the goal of eventually integrating back into her “normal” life. Unfortunately with this rare diagnosis, a full recovery is unknown at this time and Katie will need to rely on equipment such wheelchairs, walkers, and lifts to support her daily functions for the foreseeable future.

Anyone that has had the blessing of knowing Katie will tell you just how much of a sweet, loving, kind, hardworking and intelligent young woman she is. She undoubtedly makes everyone feel safe in her presence and, has the ability to make you laugh until you’re in tears. What struck me personally when I had the privilege of meeting Katie was the grace, respect and kindness she carried in conversations with everyone around her. She is always the first person to jump to help someone, even a stranger, in need - but this time Katie needs us.

This GoFundMe page is to support Katie's recovery and getting the medical care she needs as quickly as she needs it. The donations raised will go towards her current and upcoming medical expenses as well as cost of living expenses.

Thank you for spending the time to learn about Katie and how we can all support her. I cannot put into words how much of a blessing your support would be on her as she navigates the unforeseen future.

Thank you,

Katie's Family & Friends