Sam's Brain Surgery Fund

I'm Shaunna Blueye and this is about my sister Samantha Miller. We are close in age and close in friendship. We have shared many things over the years but never did I think we would share the same neurological disorder. Months after her symptoms started I became symptomatic also.  I've had surgery and I'm on the other side, doing well.  I was lucky to have my sister to help guide me through what was going on because she was experiencing the same thing.  For the last two years she has been enduring debilitating pain and neurological symptoms. Luckily the same surgeon will be operating on her august 27th where she will get the much needed care she so desperately deserves. Unfortunately  she'll have to pay out of pocket for her care. 
Down below is an account in her own words of what her life has been like. Please consider donating so she can get her life back. All proceeds will be going to travel and surgical expenses.  


Two years ago my life was drastically changed when I started experiencing severe neurological symptoms. Since that time I have been on a journey to get to the bottom of it all and get my life back. I've unfortunately faced many obstacles along the way, from unsupportive medical professionals to having to sacrifice many things,including my career/schooling and independence.  My quality of life completely diminished and there are times I don't even recognize myself.

Almost one year ago my sister (Shaunna) started experiencing the same exact symptoms as I did. We knew that what was happening to me was the same thing that she was dealing with as well. Shaunna was diagnosed with Chiari Malformation which is a structural defect of the skull and a common comorbidity of the genetic disorder we share.   Chiari causes a person's cerebellum to to push through the opening at the base of your skull which can result in some pretty awful neurological symptoms. We were both referred to Dr. John Oro a Chiari specialist in Aurora, Colorado. Shaunna was able to get brain surgery in March and has had an extremely successful recovery. 

In March I had a consult with Dr. Oro and he expressed that I would be a surgical candidate. For the first time in two years I had a doctor giving me the definitive answer to what this was that stole my life from me. I had to have one more scan to rule out further issues and last week I was given the go ahead to schedule my surgery which will take place on August 27th. It took two years 5 different doctors and 1600 miles to get the help I needed.   

I have and the most wonderful support system in my family. my boyfriend and his family and my friends that never let me give up even on my worst days. I still have many obstacles ahead of me. My insurance is NOT covering any of the surgery since it is out of network. We have to travel to Colorado because the support we needed is simply not in Buffalo. It's going to be a long road to recovery but extremely worth it. This has been painful, humbling and frustrating experience but I will come out at the end all the better for it. I am so grateful for the continued support of others, thank you a million times over.