Help Sam Overcome Surgery and Regain Mobility

Help Sam Regain Mobility and Independence After Life-Changing Surgery

On July 16th, Sam will undergo a crucial surgery that requires 6-12 months of recovery, during which she will be unable to work. We aim to raise $20,000 to cover her living expenses and a custom wheelchair, vital for her recovery and daily life.

Sam’s Journey:

In 2002, Sam began suffering from severe recurrent, resistant UTIs. Despite four years of medical tests and treatments, her condition worsened. In 2009, an MRI at Keck Hospital of USC revealed spinal cord damage and spina bifida occulta with tethered cord syndrome (TCS). This rare diagnosis led to multiple surgeries to manage her condition and its complications.

Her medical journey has been challenging. In 2015, a second back surgery necessitated a colostomy. Recently, tests indicated significant nerve decline in her right leg, affecting her gait and balance. On July 16, 2024, Sam will undergo a complex 12+

hour surgery to remove diseased discs and fuse her lumbar, sacrum, and SI joints. This procedure will reduce tension on her spinal cord but will limit her mobility further.

Impact on Sam’s Life:

The repercussions of her late diagnosis have profoundly affected Sam’s life. She can no longer participate in activities she loves, like hiking, running, nannying, and even attending church. Mobility aids are essential for her daily activities, and she relies on braces to stabilize her ankles. She has had to outsource household tasks and is unable to lift more than 10-15 pounds.

Post-Surgery Recovery and Future Goals:

After surgery, Sam’s recovery will involve intensive physical therapy and adapting to her new limitations. She will spend the next 6-12 months focusing on healing and reconnecting with loved ones. Financial support is critical during this period as she cannot work. A custom wheelchair is essential to enhance her mobility moving forward, especially on flare days when walking is nearly impossible.

Our Goal:

We aim to raise $20,000 to cover Sam’s living expenses and the cost of a custom wheelchair. This will significantly improve her quality of life and aid her recovery. Sam dreams of pursuing a graduate degree to help foster youth once she is able.

Your support can make a tremendous difference in Sam’s life. Every donation, no matter the size, brings us closer to our goal. Thank you for helping Sam regain her independence and continue her journey toward healing.

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You can read more about TCS here .