I have been struggling for several years with medical issues, but within the last year, I’ve had severe onset back pain. It’s also complicated by scoliosis and fibromyalgia. I recently found out that I have large extradural lesions, tumors, and disc extrusions on L2-L3. I also have a notable mass on L3 and severe nerve root damage. I have two ruptured discs. The last few months, I have spent a lot of time at doctors' offices and hospitals, trying to figure out the best course of action. I have finally found a neurosurgeon to take my case, and he is evaluating it. I will have to have back surgery and will be unable to work for quite some time. They’ve also referred me to a pain center for comfort care due to some other issues that I’m having that will only prolong the illness. I will update and share more of my story as more information becomes available.

As of right now, I am trying to work, but it is becoming more difficult. Now I’m down to 2 to 3 days a week and will probably be taking off work. I’ve never done anything like this. I’ve never asked for help. I’ve never asked for assistance, so this is very, very hard for me. I need assistance in covering just living expenses such as rent, car, utilities, prescriptions, and medical costs. This has depleted every dime that I have, and I have no backup plan because I have always been the backup plan for me and others.

I’ve always had a very close relationship with God. I turned my medical condition over to God nine years ago, and I have been here eight years longer than I was ever expected to be. This is just another bump in the road, but this one is going to take me down for a while. I feel as if God has laid this on my heart to come to you, my friends, my loved ones, to ask for help, which is very, very difficult for me. If you know me at all, you know how difficult this is, but I feel like this is the road that God has chosen for me. Any help or assistance that you could give me would be greatly appreciated.

This has definitely changed who I am. It’s very humiliating to have to ask people to come and help you get a bath. It’s very humiliating to have to ask people to come and help you do everyday things that you’ve done your whole entire life. I’ve been independent on my own for 15 years, so yes, this is very hard for me. God is in control, and He will lead the way, and I will follow His road as I always have.