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A Modern Family Ask for Heath

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Dear beloved friends and family,

This Wednesday 9/20/23, our son Heath will embark on a challenging journey as he undergoes a complex spinal fusion surgery at the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP). This procedure is crucial in correcting his idiopathic scoliosis, a condition that has affected his growth and wellbeing.

Heath's rapid growth spurt over the past year has contributed to the development of this condition. (3 inches in one year!). While the exact cause remains unknown, Heath is part of a slew of epigenetic research studies and we will continue to learn more alongside the rest of the medical community.

To ensure the best possible outcome for Heath, we have entrusted his care to the brilliant hands and cutting-edge technology of Dr. John Flynn, an esteemed expert in this field. (Only the best for our Heath-bear)
You can learn more about Dr. Flynn here (https://www.chop.edu/doctors/flynn-john-m).

Heath will undergo a Posterior Spinal Fusion with Instrumentation approach, a meticulous procedure that involves making an incision along his entire spine. Specialized screws, hooks, and rods will be carefully attached to his vertebrae, acting as anchor points to correct the curvatures caused by severe scoliosis. Bone grafts will then be placed over his spine, allowing it to fuse in the corrected position. This procedure is intended to transform his condition from severe to mild scoliosis, providing him with a much brighter future.

Fortunately, due to Heath's autism diagnosis and the support of Act 62 and Pennsylvania's CHIP program, his medical bills are covered. However, we still face additional expenses to ensure Heath's comfort during his extensive recovery period. Therefore, we humbly ask for your support in raising $3,500 to cover these costs.

The funds raised will be used to provide Heath with essential resources such as new beds (including suitable mattresses and frames) that accommodate his fused spine, orthopedic office chairs in both of our homes to facilitate his online charter school education, orthopedic shoes, bathing equipment, nutritional supplements, medications, and more. These tools will greatly contribute to his overall well-being and aid in his recovery process.

As we navigate this challenging time as co-parents, neither of us qualifies for FMLA benefits. We will be tag-teaming Heath's care, just as we have tackled every other aspect of our co-parenting journey. I will exhaust my PTO to be by his side around-the-clock for the next three weeks, both in the hospital and at home.

As someone who fundraises professionally, it is still difficult for me to ask for help in such a personal capacity. However, Pete and I are immensely grateful for the myriad of ways you support. Your thoughts and prayers during this stressful season mean the world to us.

We will keep you updated on Heath's progress throughout his recovery on this page.

With heartfelt blessings,

Emily, Pete, and Heath
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Donations 

  • Anonymous
    • $50
    • 1 yr
  • Dennis Curtin
    • $25
    • 1 yr
  • Jon Mackey
    • $50
    • 1 yr
  • Anonymous
    • $50
    • 1 yr
  • Debra Reed
    • $50
    • 1 yr
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Fundraising team (3)

Emily Camerer
Organizer
Williamsport, PA
Pete Trapkus
Team member
Elizabeth Camerer
Team member

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