Give Laura Lee Surgery for Less Pain, More Life

Hello, my name is Sharon and I’m organizing this fundraiser for my sister Laura. Laura has been on a long journey of health issues and chronic pain which has been complicated by a car accident that happened some years ago. Raising funds for her jaw surgery would be a huge step toward less pain and more life!

Laura’s journey began with severe pain from endometriosis, migraines, and fatigue. Sadly, one of the prescribed hormone drugs aggravated and caused even more permanent health problems—which she only discovered too late. Peeling away the layers of her health issues, she has been battling endometriosis, fibromyalgia and mast cell activation syndrome, just to name a few. All these issues caused daily debilitating pain and fatigue. As her health declined, she has not been able to work. She persevered to get on Disability benefits. This has enabled her to have the healthcare coverage she needed but couldn’t get without a job.

But in the middle of this health journey. She and my mom were in a car accident—they were hit from behind (mom is OK!). But for Laura her jaw pain and migraines were greatly aggravated by the whiplash.

The diagnosis is that both jaw joints are damaged. Both discs are perforated and do not follow the jaw’s (mandible) movement causing popping, misalignment, pain, and lack of function. She also has sustained some bone loss on her mandible, but surgery will help to prevent further damage. There are days she can’t really talk or chew, and she has terrible migraines. She told me, “I can’t even open my mouth enough to sing.” The surgery she needs to correctly address the issue is not covered by Medicaid.

But I want you to know that Laura perseveres, and I know she has so much she can contribute to our community. She has learned so much about pain and herself. She is so patient. She is quick to encourage others. She doesn’t give up! Our goal is to raise $55,000 to cover all the expenses. All funds raised will go directly toward the surgeon, surgery center and anesthesiologist. Let’s help Laura get this jaw surgery so she can have relief from jaw pain and migraines and live life more fully!