Support Stella’s Spine Recovery Fund

Hi, my name is Stella, and I’m navigating a life-changing spinal cord injury that has left me paralyzed and taken away my ability to walk and work.

In November I unexpectedly lost the ability to walk due to a spinal condition that progressed without my knowledge. After emergency surgery, I am now living in an acute rehabilitation center, relearning basic body functions like sitting, standing and adapting to my new disability.

Unfortunately, my injury went untreated for several weeks due to medical negligence from the original ER I sought treatment from when I was displaying symptoms of Cauda Equina Syndrome, causing significant nerve damage that will affect me permanently.

While it’s unclear how much mobility I will regain after extensive physical therapy, I am facing at least 1-2 years of compromised mobility, with the possibility of life in a wheelchair. Despite this, I am determined to stay hopeful and make as much progress as I can.

While I’m deeply grateful that a majority of my medical expenses have been covered by insurance thus far, I am facing many other mounting costs as I navigate this recovery period without the ability to work.

In addition to my basic living expenses I now need to make many accessibility modifications to my living space (or potentially even move) in order to return home as my current 100-year-old historic apartment is not wheelchair-accessible.

Thank you for your kindness, compassion, and encouragement during this time.