The end of #surgerygate

In July of 2015, I tripped and fell while walking and somehow broke my right foot.  While I didn't initially think anything of this, because of my propensity to fall because of my cerebral palsy, my visit to an orthopedist and subsequent foot specialist led me to believe that I needed to have foot fusions on both feet to prevent tripping over my toes in the future.  What I later came to find out through my team of specialists who I later sought through the Mayo Clinic in Phoenix, was that this surgery would NOT be recommended to someone with cerebral palsy and also osteopenia.  I am not able to sue my previous doctor because he met the "minimum standard of care." 
         I have now had two foot fusions on my left foot and have successfully healed.  Unfortunately, on the right side, I have not been so lucky.  In May of this year, after a third failed foot fusion, my surgical team and I came to the sad decision that if I am to walk again, I will need to undergo a below the knee amputation to remove my foot and allow me to be fitted with a prosthetic.  While I am excited for the future, I am also sad too.  My medical bills over the last three years have totaled in excess of $30,000.  I will also be on medical leave from work for the month of July. While I have Short Term Disability, this is only 60% of my salary.  If you could consider donating to me during this time,  I would be extremely grateful and forever appreciative. 

Cost breakdown: 2015: $4,000
2016: $8,000
2017: $13,000
2018: $5,800 (out of pocket max reached, medical bills still pending obviously as the year isn’t over.

      I have said from the beginning that while this has been upsetting, it has also been life changing in this best of ways and made me a better person, a better therapist and hopefully a better human in the world.  I have been so touched by the love I have been shown by those I know.

<3,
Alanna :)