Unexpected Urgent Surgery

I’m making this to help cover the cost of an urgent cervical fusion for my sister-in-law, Jordan. Her spinal cord is now compressed to less than a third of the diameter it should be. It is causing severe pain that has not responded to any treatment and has had a major impact on her life.

Jordan knew she needed this major surgery, but my brother and her had made the choice to put it off until next summer. Her youngest son has been battling his own chronic health issues and the limitations during recovery would make all this even harder. This would also give their family a chance to save up for the costly procedure.

Last week, Jordan went for a consult to see what other options were available and how to help with pain management. At this appointment, she found out that the muscles in her right arm and hand are deteriorating rapidly. Her neurosurgeon said the weakness would continue at a rapid pace and some will likely be permanent. He described to them, “You are looking at a couple more months down the road and you won’t even be able to zip your own zipper. And that will be for the rest of your life.” He urged her to get the surgery done as soon as possible and they scheduled it for 2 weeks away, on October 19th.

Even though she has met her deductible, Jordan found out earlier this week that she will have to pay a large amount up front. It’s enough to potentially keep this surgery from happening.

Jordan is usually the first to find a way to help, often even before anyone asks. Most of the time, she does it without telling anybody else and never asks for anything in return. She takes care of others in her job and at home, and I’m hoping that all of us who care about her can step up to take care of her now.