Kevin's Medical Fund for WalkAide

My name is Kevin and I had a stroke on October 11, 2014.  The stroke was on the left side of my brain, affecting the right side of my body.  I lost movement of my right arm and leg, had paralysis in my face and my speech was slurred.  I spent 15 days in Virginia Mason's Intensive Inpatient Rehabilitation Clinic to start working on my affected areas and to get them moving again.   During my stay in the clinic, I spent quite a bit of time with physical, occupational and speech therapists to regain what I had lost.  By the time I left the clinic, I was able to walk 550 ft., go up and down 2 flights of stairs, my facial paralysis had lessened and my speech had improved.

After being released from the hospital, I continued with my physical and occupational therapy.  I continue to see improvement, but at a much slower pace.  I was also fitted with a carbon fiber leg brace to help aid me with walking, but after using it for about a week, I found my leg to be fatigued and my knee continued to snap back.  My PT told me I would damage my knee if I continued to snap it back when stepping.  

I then looked into two products, Bioness L300 and a WalkAide.  You can find more information at www.bioness.com and www.walkaide.com  These products are designed specifically for people needing help walking.  It attaches just below the knee with electrodes placed on your leg muscles.  The unit sends electrical stimulation to the muscles to help you walk more naturally.  I had a home-trial of the WalkAide and found it to greatly improve my walking without snapping my knee back.  I also have what's called "foot drop."  This is a side effect of my stroke and my right foot points down because my ankle still isn't working properly.  With this unit, my toes remained pointed up and I didn't drag my toes on the ground.  What I liked most about the WalkAide was the fact I had more freedom and independence, and I can walk barefoot around the house.  This was a huge boost in my recovery, however I recently found out my insurance won't cover the cost of the unit.  I find it very hard to ask for help, but it's what I have to do now. I need your help to purchase a WalkAide!  Your money will allow me to purchase the WalkAide and a yearly supply of electrodes.  If you can find it in your heart to support me in my recovery, I would be so humble for your generous gift!!

 Thank you!
Kevin