Help Heather Access Treatment

Heather has been an advocate for Autism Awareness from a young age. She followed her passion by pursuing her master’s degree in Applied Behavior Analysis and Autism. She ultimately became a Board Certified Behavioral Analyst so she could not only advocate for autistic individuals but also work directly with them. Working in the world of ABA not only includes intellect but also requires understanding the physical component of working with individuals on the level of the autism spectrum Heather is so passionate about serving.

 
Unfortunately, at no fault of Heather’s clients, she had her first work related injury about 5 years ago. Following another severe work injury in 2018, Heather had no choice but to go on short term disability from the job she loved. During her time on short term disability Heather was also able to have her dog, Riley, certified as a service animal to aide in her treatment and care.  Ultimately, after years of her health declining, due to being misdiagnosed and constantly fighting for an accurate diagnosis and proper medical treatment, Heather found a doctor willing to do a thorough review of her medical records. During the pandemic, Heather finally got the accurate diagnoses of cervical dystonia and dysautonomia due to the injuries she sustained at work. Both these diagnoses do not have a cure but do offer medical treatment intended to improve her quality of life. With a neuromuscular disorder and a damaged nervous system, life looks at lot different for Heather. Her current medical treatment that is not covered by insurance and requires weekly treatments ranging from $350 to $600 a visit.
 

Heather’s injury also gravely impacted her dental health. After years of extensive dental work, we now know that dental issues are common with dystonia and dysautonomia. Due to the years of improper treatment due to misdiagnosis, her medical and dental bills have now become unmanageable. This is compounded by her inability to work given the severity of her symptoms. Her outstanding dental and oral surgery bills to have a total of 5 teeth removed is currently $9,167.00, with interest quickly accruing. Heather also has the expected minimum expenditure of $15,000.00 to have those teeth replaced so she can regain a normal diet.

 
Heather has tried to manage all of this on her own. Her symptoms range from difficulty walking to severe muscle tension, spasming, weakness and nerve damage along with debilitating migraines and a dysregulated nervous system- this is just the tip of the iceberg. Heather has turned down friends and families offers to create fundraising accounts for years. Heather loves working with autistic individuals and has been hesitant about creating such an account, as she does not want her injuries to misrepresent them. Heathers passion for the population she serves has never and will never end. Unfortunately, the time has come that she really needs any help she can receive. Rest assured, any donation you can provide goes directly to Heather’s extensive treatment. We are grateful for your donations, time and energy in supporting Heather as she continues to navigate her diagnoses and get the treatment she needs.