Help Overcome Craniocervical Instability

Help Me Avoid a Life-Altering Surgery and Regain My Health

ive developed into a rare and debilitating condition called Craniocervical Instability (CCI) — a structural instability between the skull and upper cervical spine. Specifically, the joint between my skull and C1 vertebra (also known as the atlas) has become dangerously unstable.

This condition affects the brainstem, spinal cord, and cranial nerves — the core of your body’s ability to function. It’s made everyday life incredibly difficult. Simple things like turning my head, thinking clearly, walking straight, or even sleeping have become painful and unpredictable.

Symptoms I now live with include:

    •    Constant pressure headaches and neck pain

    •    Dizziness, balance problems, and vision issues

    •    Muscle weakness and difficulty coordinating movements

    •    Ringing in my ears, nausea, facial numbness, and sleep apnea

    •    The terrifying risk of paralysis if left untreated

Over the past year, I’ve exhausted every conservative treatment option available: physical therapy, imaging, neurological exams, and second (and third) opinions. I’ve stayed hopeful and determined — but my condition continues to worsen. My cervical spine is no longer stable on its own, and I'm dangerously close to needing a permanent spinal fusion of my skull to my upper neck and brainstem — a life-altering and high-risk surgery.

But there is one last hopeful option: stem cell therapy to regenerate the damaged ligaments and stabilize my cervical spine. It’s not covered by insurance and comes at a significant cost, but it could offer the best chance to avoid fusion and reclaim a more normal life.

The Treatment Plan

Phase 1: Within 3 Weeks

Clinic: Alpine Spine & Orthopedics – Dr. Richard McMurtrey

Treatment: Bone marrow stem cell therapy targeting the alar ligaments, C1, and full posterior cervical spine

Cost:

    •    Posterior cervical spine: $20,000

    •    Alar ligaments (anterior): $10,000

Total: $30,000

(My imaging has already been overnighted. The treatment plan has been reviewed and discussed.)

Phase 2: 3–4 Months Later

Clinic: Dr. Pravin Patel, Innovative Hospital (India)

Treatment: Anterior cervical stem cell injections

Cost: $10,000

Booster Rounds – Phases 3 & 4

Clinic: Dr. Grove, Joint Rehab & Sports Medicine

Estimated Cost: $3,400 each

Total Estimated Need: $43,400

I’ve never been someone who finds it easy to ask for help — but today, I am. If you're in a position to contribute, your support could quite literally change the course of my life. Even a small donation would bring me closer to avoiding an irreversible surgery and give me a real chance at healing.

Whether you’re able to donate or simply help by sharing this message, I can’t thank you enough. Knowing I have people in my corner gives me the strength to keep fighting.

Attached you’ll find my Digital Motion X-ray (DMX) report and evaluation notes, as well as a short explanation of CCI for those who want to understand more.

With heartfelt gratitude,

CORY

PS imaging DMX/mri/ct scans were reviewed. I’m waiting on updated copies Monday 7/14/25

procedure was completed 7/12 and 7/13