Please help me help Dara with her mobility needs, so she can have
a mobile, independent pain-free life, pursing her dreams while fighting CRPS.
When I first met Dara, I was impressed with her work ethic and extreme creativity. I learned about how as a young child, she designed her own bracelets and raised funds for several animal welfare charities! She’s truly been an entrepreneur since childhood!
We worked together for some time before I found out what she was facing, she was that good at masking her pain just to get things done. As time went on, I became aware of her condition, I respected her even more. Over these last two years our friendship has grown, I’ve seen not just her drive, but her heart. I’ll never forget how she rescued a group of bunnies, despite her own pain, and cared for them until they were safe… because that’s who she is.
I truly believe she’s on this planet to help countless young women. Her creativity, organization, and heart all align with lifting others up. Once she’s fully mobile, I know she’ll do exactly that.
Let’s help her get there, now!
Joshua
Dara's Story
Four years ago, her life looked completely different. She was active, independent, and building her future, skating, exploring, and starting her own clothing business.
At 24, she suffered a serious ankle injury that led to surgery. That surgery caused major nerve damage, leaving her right foot partially paralyzed. Shortly after, She developed Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS), a rare neurological condition that causes severe, constant pain and loss of normal function.
Since then, everyday life has changed in ways she never imagined.
Walking, standing, and basic mobility, things most people don’t think twice about, have become daily challenges. She still relies on the same medical walking boot she was prescribed after surgery just to get around. It’s not a real solution, but it’s the only way she's been able to stay mobile.
After years of treatments, appointments, and searching for answers, she finally found a path forward.
A Real Chance to Walk with Stability Again
She needs your help to participate in the ExoSym program in Gig Harbor, Washington.
The ExoSym is a custom-built medical brace designed for people with severe lower limb injuries and neurological conditions like hers. Unlike traditional braces, it stabilizes the leg and redistributes weight in a way that can significantly reduce pain and improve mobility.
For Dara, this could mean:
- Walking with real stability again
- Reducing daily pain and strain
- Regaining independence in everyday life
- Moving beyond the walking boot she's relied on for years
This is a real, medically recognized solution that can help her walk with stability again and reclaim her independence.
Why She Needs Help
Unfortunately, the ExoSym program is not covered by insurance.
To receive the brace, Dara must travel to Washington for a multi-day evaluation, fitting, and training program. In addition, she need a properly fitted wheelchair for days when weight-bearing isn’t possible.
After years of medical challenges, this is more than she can afford on her own.
How Funds Will Be Used
- ExoSym brace + evaluation and training program
- Wheelchair (custom-fitted for long-term use)
- Flights to Washington
- Lodging for 7–9 days
- Local transportation
- Meals during training
- Additional medical/travel expenses
Total Goal: $19,700
Why This Matters
- This isn’t just about a brace.
- It’s about being able to move safely again.
- It’s about independence.
- It’s about having a real chance to rebuild the life Dara was working toward before her injury.
How You Can Help
Every donation, no matter the amount, brings Dara one step closer to walking with stability again.
Every share of this campaign helps her get there.
Thank you for taking the time to read Dara's story and for supporting her in any way you can.
With gratitude.
Dara smiling before surgery
Dara before accident
Organizer and beneficiary
Dara Damber
Beneficiary