Legs for my dad! ..... Bart
Donation protected
Hi, I'm Brittney & I am setting this account up for my dad. After working as a massage therapist for over 40 years and helping many people with their health & comfort, my dad is now in need of help.
Here's the deal ..... :)
He was diagnosed with Charcot Marie Tooth Syndrome in late 2012. The disease affects the whole body, particularly the nervous system causing deterioration of the tissue and extreme pain. Initially, it was most evident in his right foot (Charcot Foot) causing swelling and pain and eventually deterioration of the bones. He dealt with it himself for the best part of 2 years before he had it officially diagnosed. He began his official medical trek in January of 2013. Following several operations, including 2 major reconstructive surgeries, ultimately his right leg was amputated below the knee (BKA) in May of 2016. In the meantime, his left foot was breaking down as well. The doctors are now in the process of preparing him for BKA #2. Reconstruction surgery is not a viable option since the bones will continue to continue to deteriorate and amputation in inevitable.
This has severely affected his ability to work and take care of himself the way he has always done. In February of 2017, his employer cut his pay by 40%. Then he was laid off on September 15, 2017. He is currently on unemployment but that will not last much longer. He is falling behind in some of his everyday living expenses which makes coming up with a new financial plan very urgent prior to his next surgical procedure.
The nerves in his hands and arms (shoulders mostly) are showing some effects of the Charcot Syndrome as well, making post-op employment ability a mystery. I started this GoFundMe account to help acquire some of the needed equipment & supplies (prosthetic after procedure, mobility chair, modify bathroom & shower) he will desperately need, as well as help with medical expenses not covered by insurance along with his immediate everyday living expenses. I have been helping him with his meds and other bills for a few months, but with my young family I am somewhat limited in that department.
Because the disease attacks the whole body, there's no way of predicting whether the pain level will settle down in his post surgery life. In addition, as I understand it, learning to function with two BKA prosthetics is far more difficult than just the one. Therefore, between the pain level mystery, the functionality & his age ….. he has no real concept of what post surgery life will be like.
As we all know, it is difficult for most of us to ask for help. Particularly financial help. However, I have chosen this avenue to help my dad improve his quality of life like he has done for so many other people in his lifetime. Any help you might feel inclined to offer will be greatly appreciated. Thank you so much. May you receive the needed blessings you desire in your life through this kind act of giving.
All my best,
Brittney
Here's the deal ..... :)
He was diagnosed with Charcot Marie Tooth Syndrome in late 2012. The disease affects the whole body, particularly the nervous system causing deterioration of the tissue and extreme pain. Initially, it was most evident in his right foot (Charcot Foot) causing swelling and pain and eventually deterioration of the bones. He dealt with it himself for the best part of 2 years before he had it officially diagnosed. He began his official medical trek in January of 2013. Following several operations, including 2 major reconstructive surgeries, ultimately his right leg was amputated below the knee (BKA) in May of 2016. In the meantime, his left foot was breaking down as well. The doctors are now in the process of preparing him for BKA #2. Reconstruction surgery is not a viable option since the bones will continue to continue to deteriorate and amputation in inevitable.
This has severely affected his ability to work and take care of himself the way he has always done. In February of 2017, his employer cut his pay by 40%. Then he was laid off on September 15, 2017. He is currently on unemployment but that will not last much longer. He is falling behind in some of his everyday living expenses which makes coming up with a new financial plan very urgent prior to his next surgical procedure.
The nerves in his hands and arms (shoulders mostly) are showing some effects of the Charcot Syndrome as well, making post-op employment ability a mystery. I started this GoFundMe account to help acquire some of the needed equipment & supplies (prosthetic after procedure, mobility chair, modify bathroom & shower) he will desperately need, as well as help with medical expenses not covered by insurance along with his immediate everyday living expenses. I have been helping him with his meds and other bills for a few months, but with my young family I am somewhat limited in that department.
Because the disease attacks the whole body, there's no way of predicting whether the pain level will settle down in his post surgery life. In addition, as I understand it, learning to function with two BKA prosthetics is far more difficult than just the one. Therefore, between the pain level mystery, the functionality & his age ….. he has no real concept of what post surgery life will be like.
As we all know, it is difficult for most of us to ask for help. Particularly financial help. However, I have chosen this avenue to help my dad improve his quality of life like he has done for so many other people in his lifetime. Any help you might feel inclined to offer will be greatly appreciated. Thank you so much. May you receive the needed blessings you desire in your life through this kind act of giving.
All my best,
Brittney
Organizer
Brittney Blackham
Organizer
Pahrump, NV
