Support Phos's Spinal Surgery Recovery

Greetings community!

My name is Phos! I am a queer and nonbinary disabled person who lives in Providence, RI. A few years ago, I suffered an injury that caused me some spinal issues. After a successful first surgery, I thought I would be able to return to life without any physical complications. A few months ago, I started having pain in my left lower back that became increasingly worse. After imaging and tests, doctors concluded I have a bone spur that has developed in the same area (between L4 and L5 in my lumbar region). This has caused compression on my nerves, particularly my left side. It has left me with the inability to perform everyday tasks, other than walking. Twisting, bending, or squatting triggers instant pain and has deprived me of many of the activities that keep me happy and healthy, such as hiking, cycling, and seaweed collecting. The chronic pain and physical restrictions have significantly impacted my sleep, my work life, and also most importantly, my mental health.

Luckily, relief is in sight. I have scheduled a spinal fusion and decompression surgery to help lift L4 and L5 back into place and relieve my nerve system. This surgery will require 1-2 days in the hospital, post-physical therapy, and up to 3 weeks of recovery time. During this time, I will be out of work and unable to sit for periods exceeding 30 minutes. I will also continue to be restricted to physical movements that do not impact the spine, except for walking and standing. My partner is taking time off to help with the post-surgical recovery and take care of me. Their support is incredibly helpful, but taking time off and the surgical fees that are not covered by my insurance are costly. This is where we are hoping you can help. Here is an outline of the costs that we are facing.

Deductible cost up front for admission: at least $1000

Additional out-of-pocket costs for the surgery and hospital stay: $3000-$5000

Amount needed to sustain over October for me: $1500

Amount needed for my partner to sustain over October: $1500

Additional costs (Follow-up appointment co-pays, medication co-pays, standing desk for returning to work while in recovery if able, rideshares if needed): $500

While some of these are only estimates, the surgical costs "ballpark" was verified by my insurance to expect out-of-pocket expenses to be around these dollar amounts. These are subject to change; however, I feel collectively that the amount I am requesting would be enough to cover those costs for now, and if not, for later, given there is the likelihood of physical therapy and other follow-up imaging costs.

I really thank you all for taking the time to read and share this with others in the community. If you know me, then you'll understand how important my physical and mental well-being is to the work I do for the Rhode Island Community. If you don't, then I hope we do get the opportunity to know each other. I thank everyone in advance for their donations and for helping to spread the word.