Shannon's Medical Expenses

Six years ago Shannon Schiller was diagnosed with systemic scleroderma – a progressive and devastating auto immune disease.  Scleroderma is a disease that causes severe pain, hardens the skin and can also harden other body tissues.  Not only is the pain constant and debilitating, as the skin hardening progresses Shannon’s ability to move and function becomes more difficult.  Hardening internal organs can lead to organ and stem cell transplant and can become fatal.  Shannon has heavy skin involvement and some internal involvement – fortunately no major organs have been affected yet.  Her medications are numerous and their impact on daily living and functioning have become disabling.

Shannon’s condition progressed until her doctors insisted she stop working.  Almost a year ago Shannon was forced to apply for disability to pay for her bills.  Up until that point she worked through the pain as a veterinary technician.  She loved her job, helping her 4-legged and 2-legged friends.   Even with this devastating diagnosis Shannon has always kept a positive attitude and outlook on life.  She would push through the pain and keep doing what needed to be done. 

Shannon has always had a love for life.   Most people that know Shannon have either adopted a rescue animal with her assistance, or have called her for help and support when they are in crisis.  She is quick to offer help to every one she knows.  No matter what time of the day or night – she would go to help those 4 legged friends in need – ok and the occasional 2 legged bird or duck.

Even with good medical insurance, Shannon’s co-pays for medications and doctor appointments are in excess of $10,000 every year.  This does not include the cost of the annual trip to Washington to see an expert in the field who works with her local doctors or the additional surgeries and other treatments that have occurred as a result of her illness.  In the last 6 months she has undergone 2 major surgeries that have cost an additional $9,000 out of pocket.  Now that she is unable to work her income is severely limited.

Shannon has always been there for others when they are in need.  Now she is the one in need.  All donations will go to support her ongoing medical treatment.  If you cannot make a donation please keep her in your prayers and send this story to someone else who may be able to help.  Pay it forward.  Thanks you thank you thank you.