Our beloved friend Shauna has been suffering from severe hip pain due to complete loss of cartilage in her left hip that’s been progressively getting worse for the past three years. She has also torn her ACL and meniscus in the left knee (same side) more recently due to the loss of mobility and agility in relation to her hip injury. The family has watched her suffer after simple tasks such as laundry, cooking, cleaning and errands. She’s in debilitating pain afterwards and tries to push through but, she can’t find relief in any position. The cortisone shots and pain killers aren’t working anymore and she has been left feeling like drinking wine every night is the only way to dull the pain. This is not ideal and not how we want to see anyone we love. Efren is left feeling helpless and desperate for help.

She was going through the proper channels and getting help through insurance with Efren’s work before the car accident but, he has since been officially laid off and she lost her spousal insurance coverage immediately. They have started the process for Medicaid but, they were told she will likely start receiving benefits for herself in 6 months to a year. Due to Efren being laid up and not allowed to lift anything with his neck injury, he can not help with their 3 kiddos in a physical capacity. Shauna needs the surgery as soon as possible to avoid any further injuries. The surgery will consist of inserting a rod to separate the bones and stop them from grinding on each other.

In order to receive care Shauna has to pay about $6,000 as a down payment for the surgery and $1,300 dollar payments for a few months there after. Contributions will provide financial relief and encouragement to Shauna and the Rivera family. Anything helps as they are in a position with both parents are disabled and in limbo of the system with 3 young boys to raise.