Megan's Spinal Surgery

Hi, my name is Karen,

I am appealing for help raising funds for my daughter Megan who desperately requires spinal surgery.

Megan is a fun-loving, caring young lady who we are proud to call our daughter;

she is passionate about outdoor adventuring in the Zambian bush, testing her culinary creativity, and spending quality time with her friends and family, not least her 13-year-old brother Ryan.

Megan has been suffering for much of her young 23 years from Isthmic Spondylothesis, which doctors believe is most likely caused by an undiagnosed defect at birth and in 2014 was diagnosed as being Grade 1. Over the subsequent years Megan has had multiple treatments to counter long-standing effects as well as the pain caused by this disorder, however in recent months there has been a noticeable decline in her mobility coupled with an increase in the pain she suffers as a result.

Given this deterioration, she again sought the consultation of a specialist. She underwent some investigative scans in the past week, which have shown that her condition has worsened to Grade 3, meaning that surgery is a necessity. These recent consultations have also identified a fracture in her L5, deeming it unstable, and as a consequence of this there is damage to other areas of the spine as her body compensates for the lower vertebrae that are less able to function normally.

We have now had separate opinions from 3 specialists who have all confirmed the diagnosis and the urgency of the necessary surgery.

Given the complexity of the procedures and aftercare involved, surgery in Zambia is not possible.

A specialist in these conditions who is based in South Africa has been recommended to us, but as the disorder is deemed by the medical aid / insurance company as congenital, it is not covered by her policy.

An estimation for the surgery costs has been made from US$20,000 to US$25,000, we are currently waiting for formal confirmation of this amount. In addition to the costs of the surgery, there will also be charges for hospital stays and medication.

This is a frightening amount of money to have to find so that Megan can have the treatment she now desperately needs, and as a result we don’t see any option but to appeal for help. We have watched her struggle while attempting to keep a smile on her face, but the pain Megan has suffered already and the restrictions her condition have placed on day-to-day life are immense, and her situation will continue to worsen without this urgent surgery. She has now had to stop working as she is not allowed to lift, bend, or stand unnecessarily – all of which means that right now her dream of becoming a chef looks insurmountable.

As her family, we have started this campaign to help with the costs of this so Megan can return to doing what she loves and continuing her journey towards her life goals. If you can help with anything at all, every bit helps, we greatly appreciate it. And if you're unable to donate, please consider amplifying this fundraiser's reach by emailing, texting, or posting this on your social media.

Thank you!