Sienna's Straight Back

Michael Donato is organizing this fundraiser.

Donation protected

Hello,
I am the proud father of Sienna (pictured on the right) who is struggling with scoliosis. In May, 2016, we found out Sienna has scoliosis with approximately a 35 degree curve. At that time, she was prescribed a rigid brace. This was difficult news, as she would have to wear the brace approximately 22 hours per day, thus limiting her ability to participate in many activities. Because of this, we decided to research other bracing options finding a soft brace. We were hopful as she could wear the brace while also doing the sports she loves like gymnastics.

A couple weeks later when Alexis, Sienna's mom, took her to get the brace, another x-ray indicated the curve in her spine had progressed from 35 degrees to 48 degrees in only three months.

We were then told because of the rate of her curve progression, she will indeed need a rigid brace. At this time, we were referred to an innovative, non-surguical, treatment that would not only keep the curve from progressing, but would likely also bring her spine to nearly straight over her growth period.

With this news, however, was told she will have to stop doing gymnastics. That news was and is still very difficult for her.

Over the years, Alexis has also struggled with scoliosis and the pain it has caused. Knowing that, we decided to provide Sienna this innovative treatment so she could live a less painful life.

Sienna began treatment in August. During this two week "Scoli Academy," she attended daily from 9am to 4:30pm to engage in treatment and all it entails--stretching, lengthening, and strengthening her spine. So far, Sienna has done great while also shedding some tears because of the exercises and, for lack of a better word, contraptions she is put in which can be painful. (See photos below) She will return every three months for monitoring and adjustments to her program.

This procedure, however, is not covered by insurance--it is considered an "alternative" treatment. Because of the individual attention and custom-made apparatus, it is quite expensive. The initial cost is approximately $25,000. She will then need to go in approximately every 3 months at approximately $5000 for each visit. Depending on her rate of growth this could last over the next several years.

As you can imagine, this will be costly. While we could fund the procedure through credit, it will likely put us in a very difficult place financially over the years. That is why I'm reaching out. I never thought I would do something like this, but I want to give Sienna the best possible chance of living a healthy life. If it means humbling myself like this, then so be it. She is such a vibrant and loving person, and I want to see that continue. I (and my family) would be so thankful for anything you can donate. Any little bit will count. Thank you so much for your consideration and support.

On the Eckard table--during her two weeks at intitial treatment, then followed up quarterly, this stretches Sienna's nerves which will help elongate her spinal cord to then match the rate of growth as her spine reducing her curve.

Getting fitted with spinal weighting--she will have to strengthen muscles weakened by having a curve, approximately 20 min per day.

The traction chair--this will stretch the ligaments between the vertabrae to allow the spine to move. She will sit in this chair approximately 45 min per day.

The new digs for the next few years...This has been the most challenging adjustment, but motivated by having a straight spine! Just the cost of the brace alone is approximately $5000 each time she outgrows them.

Again, we can't tell you how grateful we are for your consideration!! With love, Mike, Alexis, Sienna & Mia