Kona's Spinal Surgery

My brother's dog, Kona, started limping a few weeks ago.  He took her to the vet and found out she has a herniated disc between C6 and C7, probably from jumping and playing in the backyard.  They gave her some pain meds and steroids, hoping to relieve her discomfort.  Unfortunately, she has only gotten worse.  Now she can't walk.  My brother has to carry her outside and help keep her from falling over when she goes to the bathroom.  He consulted another vet who said they can only understand the extent of the damage with an MRI.  Dogs must be anesthetized for an MRI and the surgery should be performed while the dog is under.  My brother is completely heartbroken.  Kona is only 5 years old and I just can't believe that "putting her down" is the best option.  He will have to take her back to the vet this week and, with the help of gofundme, will hopefully be able to afford the surgery.  If the doctors discover that they can't operate, then any donations will be refunded.  Kona is the only dog he's ever had and we would all be so incredibly thankful if she could be with us for many more years.