Ciera’s surgery was January 13th.
To make it possible, our family had to take out an emergency loan to cover the out-of-pocket shortfall because the VA will not cover this specialized care — despite Ciera’s 100% permanent disability rating. We’re continuing to fundraise to repay that emergency loan so her recovery doesn’t become a financial crisis.
Without this surgery, Ciera’s spinal cord/brainstem compression could lead to permanent paralysis (including quadriplegia) and loss of bladder/bowel function.
My twin sister Ciera Buzzell is a Warrenton resident, U.S. Marine Corps veteran (Iraq/Kuwait), disabled former ICU Registered Dietitian and frontline healthcare worker during COVID, and a single mother raising Jack (7) and Piper (4).
Ciera’s diagnosis:
Ciera has Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS), a progressive connective tissue disorder that has led to craniocervical instability — meaning her skull/upper spine are unstable and compressing vital structures.
Getting this diagnosis took years of fighting through dismissal and misdiagnosis, plus thousands of dollars in imaging and specialist visits.
Every day, she endures:
- Severe, migraine-level head and neck pain
- Crushing fatigue
- Dizziness and vision problems
- Cognitive impairment (“brain fog”)
Despite her 100% permanent disability VA rating, the VA will not cover this specialized surgery.
The surgery (and why this fundraiser continues):
This procedure is intended to stabilize her skull/neck and stop the progression of instability. It involves fusion/stabilization, bone grafts, and hardware.
To keep today’s surgery on track, we had to take out an emergency medical loan to cover the gap. This fundraiser is now focused on repaying that loan so Ciera can recover without being crushed by debt.
For transparency, we’ve posted redacted estimates in the Updates section.
Why we need you:
Ciera has spent her adult life serving others — in the Marines, in critical care, and as a mom. Now she needs help to get through recovery without a financial crisis.
How you can help:
- Donate any amount (every dollar helps repay the loan)
- Share this fundraiser (this is the biggest help)
- Send encouragement and prayers (it matters)
Whether you can give $5 or simply share, you’re helping Ciera get through surgery and recovery.
A message from Ciera:
“I’ve always prided myself on being strong — for my patients, for my kids, for my country. But right now, I need help to keep going. This surgery isn’t just about me — it’s about being here for Jack and Piper.”
