Caitlin’s Surgery
Donation protected
My beautiful sister is booked in to have some pretty scary surgery on the 13th September. She is never one to ask for help so I’m doing this on her behalf. This surgery is looking to cost around $5000 and she will be needing to pay for accomodation, medication and cover her time off work. I know I have some amazing, generous and loving friends and from the bottom of my heart it would mean so much to my family if you would all consider donating. This has been a long, sometimes uncertain journey for Caitlin and we all just want it o be over with the best possible outcome. Below is some information on the tumour, and what the surgery will involve.Caitlin has a rare benign nerve shealth tumour called a cervical schwannoma, not much research has been done on these type of tumours. Caitlin’s surgeon believes it is affecting either her Vagus Nerve or Sympathetic Trunk Nerve
If the tumour is affecting her Vagus Nerve and the Nerve is compromised (has to be cut) it will result in Caitlin being left with speaking and swallowing difficulties. Caitlin loves to sing and has a beautiful voice.
If it’s affecting the Sympathetic Trunk Nerve she will be left with what is called Horner syndrome which will cause a slight eye droop, a constricted pupil, the inability to sweat on the side affected and possibly vision issues
Caitlin has found a Surgeon (the only one) willing to do a surgery called Intracapsular Enucleation which he believes has a 50-80% chance of preserving the nerve and leaving her with as little side affects as possible. However, Caitlin is a public patient and he only operates in the Private System.
The Tumor is approximately 6cm x 4cm in the right side of her neck. Being such a large tumor there is a chance the nerves are already stretched. Depending on nerve function after surgery Caitlin may also need corrective surgery (thyroplasty) or muscle tightening, depending on the nerve affected.
Many amount small or big is so appreciated. Much love to you all
Organizer
Emily Budden
Organizer
Ophir NSW
