Nicole's Craniocervical Decompression Recovery

Hi, my name is Mel and I created this fundraiser for my sister, Nicole Whipple.

Nicole is a full time Veterinary Technician, wife, and mother of two very sweet little boys (ages 4 and 10 months).

Nicole does an amazing job at caring for all of the people and animals in her life. She goes above and beyond for her family, friends, and creatures of all kinds. She has organized donation drives for humane societies and fostered many baby kittens. Nicole has always been a voice for those who can't speak for themselves, the first to stand up for those who need support.

Nicole has a condition called Arnold Chairi Malformation: a condition which the brain tissue extends into the spinal cord. This causes pressure on the brain and can block the normal flow of spinal fluid in and around the brain.

Nicole has had severe migraines her whole life.

In April of 2022, she developed the following symptoms:

They are making it difficult to function in all aspects of her life.

In a attempt to relieve these symptoms, Nicole has decided to have Craniocervical Decompression Surgery, scheduled for the end of September. During the surgery, the neurosurgeon will remove bone at the back of the skull, including the C1 Vertebrae.

"This is not a small undertaking and risks include, but are not limited to, bleeding, infection, CSF leak, anesthesia risks, pressure sores or neuropathy, spinal cord injury resulting in paralysis, and the rare possibility of loss of functional independence and/ or death".

This will be a five hour surgery with a 3 month recovery time, not to mention the recovery from this surgery is difficult and painful.

My sister has overcome many obstacles in her life. She is a badass with a huge heart. She has spent her life making sure that the people and animals around her are taken care of. She has had my back every single minute of my life.

I started this fundraiser because Nicole will be off work for at least 6 weeks to 3 months. I would like to ease the financial stress of this surgery on her as well as her husband. Additional childcare may be needed, along with the cost of the surgery itself.

Please help me be there for my sister as we fight her toughest battle yet. A donation, a share, encouraging words, a prayer. We appreciate every one. Thank you!