Dear friends and community,
I recently learned that I will need to undergo cervical spine surgery due to spinal cord compression, and the procedure is scheduled in two weeks. After many doctors, specialists, tests, and scans, it has been determined that surgery is medically necessary at this time. The pain and neurological symptoms have increasingly impacted my daily functioning, work, and sleep, making this step essential to prevent further progression and restore function.
I am grateful that treatment is available, but the financial reality surrounding it has been overwhelming. Ongoing medical expenses and recent changes in insurance coverage have significantly depleted my savings, leaving little financial cushion for this surgery and the recovery period that follows. I will need to take approximately 3–4 weeks away from work to recover properly. Physical therapy will begin afterward, around 4–6 weeks post-surgery. As someone who is self-employed, this means a temporary but significant loss of income in addition to surgical and related medical expenses. While I have been given an estimate, the final out-of-pocket amount will not be clear until after the procedure.
If you feel moved to contribute, I would be deeply grateful. If financial support isn’t possible, sharing this page is also a meaningful way to help. As many of you know, I have dedicated my life and work to supporting others through healing. This is one of those moments where I am learning to receive care as well. I am typically a very private person, and sharing this publicly is outside my comfort zone. Still, I believe in being honest about where I am and what I need. Thank you for your kindness, your support, and your presence in my life.
With appreciation,
Lisa
I recently learned that I will need to undergo cervical spine surgery due to spinal cord compression, and the procedure is scheduled in two weeks. After many doctors, specialists, tests, and scans, it has been determined that surgery is medically necessary at this time. The pain and neurological symptoms have increasingly impacted my daily functioning, work, and sleep, making this step essential to prevent further progression and restore function.
I am grateful that treatment is available, but the financial reality surrounding it has been overwhelming. Ongoing medical expenses and recent changes in insurance coverage have significantly depleted my savings, leaving little financial cushion for this surgery and the recovery period that follows. I will need to take approximately 3–4 weeks away from work to recover properly. Physical therapy will begin afterward, around 4–6 weeks post-surgery. As someone who is self-employed, this means a temporary but significant loss of income in addition to surgical and related medical expenses. While I have been given an estimate, the final out-of-pocket amount will not be clear until after the procedure.
If you feel moved to contribute, I would be deeply grateful. If financial support isn’t possible, sharing this page is also a meaningful way to help. As many of you know, I have dedicated my life and work to supporting others through healing. This is one of those moments where I am learning to receive care as well. I am typically a very private person, and sharing this publicly is outside my comfort zone. Still, I believe in being honest about where I am and what I need. Thank you for your kindness, your support, and your presence in my life.
With appreciation,
Lisa
Organizer
