Hi, my name is Lacey Mills and to share about myself as to why I am creating this fundraiser, we need to go back about 10 years ago. I was a senior in high school and suffered what seemed to be a minor injury at the time. It was a silly incident with my German shepherd puppy pulling me down the stairs, injuring my right shoulder. I was originally diagnosed with a shoulder strain, put in a sling, and was told it should heal up fine. To say the least, now 10 years later, it did not heal at all.

I’ve consistently dealt with instability, subluxation, nerve pain, frozen shoulder, and numerous challenges through the years. This past year I decided to address this ongoing nuisance as it has greatly impacted my ability to work at my job. After extensive testing and speaking with multiple doctors, I found an incredible orthopedic surgeon who had diagnosed me with EDS (Ehlers-Danlos syndrome). He explained due to the nature of my shoulder injury and my new EDS diagnosis, I would require extensive surgery as most of the ligaments in my shoulder have been pulled off the bone.

I’ve unfortunately had to max out multiple credit cards to cover the copays and other fees associated with my upcoming shoulder surgery, as I do not have the funds to cover it myself. I will also be out of work for at least 4 weeks due to the strict instructions of being completely immobilized post-op. During this time, I will be placed on short term disability, but will not be making nearly enough to make ends meet between my ongoing medical expenses and everyday bills.

I am not one to normally ask for help, as I take great pride in my independence, but I feel as though I have nowhere else to turn. If anyone is willing to help, I would be incredibly grateful, more than you would ever know!

Thank you all so much!

-Lacey