Our compassionate and vibrant daughter, Michaela has been diagnosed with CRPS (Complex Regional Pain Syndrome), a bewildering neurological condition notorious for its severe and relentless pain, earning it the title of the most agonizing ailment on the McGill pain scale. Despite her love for sports, reading, art, all things associated with Harry Styles, and baking, her life took a devastating turn in May 2022 when she received this diagnosis. Our family hoped for answers and relief. However, we soon realized that CRPS is poorly understood, even within the medical community.
Michaela deals with unbearable pain daily. She lost mobility in her legs for several months in 2022. She is now able to rely on crutches or a wheelchair for mobility. But she is still in excruciating pain. The simplest tasks can reduce her to tears and even gentle touches feel like a shower of sharp needles on her skin. In addition to the pain, she experiences swelling, bruising, discoloration, temperature sensitivity, fatigue, and insomnia. These 18 months have been filled with painful memories, and her condition has worsened as CRPS spreads through her body.
As parents, witnessing our daughter's suffering is heartbreaking, especially when we have limited medical support. Michaela's battle with her own body is relentless and she pleads for relief from the unending pain. Despite no known cure for CRPS, we hold onto hope for remission. Unfortunately, due to her age, Michaela cannot use certain medications, and insurance limitations hinder most treatment options. With CRPS now affecting her entire body, she is no longer eligible for spinal stimulation. Our family has sacrificed everything we can, even losing our home due to overwhelming medical bills.
Our current goal is to get Michaela to the Mayo Clinic (estimated cost: $5,000) and then to the Spero Clinic for specialized treatment (estimated cost: $30,000-$50,000). The Spero Clinic has a remarkable track record in treating CRPS patients and is the only facility of its kind dedicated to this condition. They employ cutting-edge therapies performed by experts, including neurostimulation techniques and physical therapy. We firmly believe that this clinic offers the best chance to help Michaela regain the life she so rightfully deserves.
This is why we've established this GoFundMe campaign to raise the necessary funds to make this journey possible. Every contribution, regardless of the amount, brings us one step closer to achieving our goal and giving Michaela a chance at recovery. By sharing Michaela's story, you not only support her but also raise awareness about CRPS. No one should have to endure this battle in silence without access to treatment or feel alone. We extend our heartfelt gratitude for considering Michaela's cause.
