My name is Lee Ann McElroy, and I have a rare disease called Cauda Equina Syndrome. This disease went undiagnosed for three years, progressively damaging my nerves. I was left with severe lower back pain, reduced sensation in my lower body, and weakness in my lower legs.

With no doctor willing to prescribe pain medication, I became unable to care for myself and lost my job last October. I began falling frequently and became incontinent. One fall resulted in the need for a CT scan of my head, and the Reagan Memorial Hospital ER staff saved my life by discovering that I had muscle tissue breaking down (rhabdomyolysis), causing acute renal failure. Thanks to their rapid response in administering IV fluids, my kidneys were able to fully recover. Thank you!

The good news is that I found an excellent surgeon who performed emergency surgery. I woke up after surgery feeling better than I could have ever hoped for. I now have hope for my future.

I find it necessary to ask for funding to help pay for medical bills and expenses due to lost income. Any amount will be greatly appreciated.