Oswaldo's Spinal Cord Implant

`Family, friends, and well-wishers,

    My name is Mayra Ramirez and I am the oldest sibling of Oswaldo Ramirez.  On the night of December 10th 2016, Oswaldo was involved in a single car accident on the 57 freeway.  Uncertain of Oswaldo’s whereabouts a search party that included family and friends began in hopes to find him in good sound health. Instead, after hours of searching we all learned that Oswaldo was actually at the USC Medical Center in critical condition.  In fact Oswaldo sustained multiple injuries that included, multiple broken bones, cranial and collarbone fractures, the collapsing of both lungs, and a severe spinal cord injury that required an extensive 8hr surgery.  My brother fought for his life as his tenacity and will was demonstrated on that night.  Oswaldo was monitored at the hospital’s Intensive Care Unit for a month and a half.  The hospitals team of doctors believed Oswaldo was ready for physical treatment and moved him to the area of the hospital that specialized in acute rehab.  Oswaldo tenacity and will again was demonstrated as he exceeded the teams expectations in his “silent warrior” way.  

    Oswaldo is now at home and attends a strenuous physical therapy regiment twice a week.  He has gained the admiration of staff and the self-confidence to want more.  As his older sister I have witnessed his up and downs in this recovery process both mentally and physically and I am so encouraged to see him want more.  I have completed an extensive research on the most innovating treatments and procedures with the most favorable outcomes for people in Oswaldo’s situation. After countless attempts I have found one that involves an epidural stimulation implant.  This procedure involves a neurotransmitter by epidural electrical stimulation. Numerous correspondences back and forth took place over several months between the Epidural Stimulation/Spinal Cord Treatment Team and myself, that involved numerous e-mails and disclosure of both MTIs and CAT scans. Several months later, the team determined that Oswaldo was a strong candidate for a high percentage successful outcome and approved his enrollment for the procedure.

     This innovating Epidural Stimulation procedure comes at a price that is very challenging for our family.  We are asking for any contribution to help my brother be able to receive and benefit from this procedure that will not only improve his quality of life but also increase his temperature regulation and improve leg movements with hopes of him walking again. We THANK YOU from the bottom of our hearts for your generous contribution and your time. 

May God bless you and your families