To help Hannah get scoliosis surgery

Hi, I'm Hannah's mom.

Please be sure to read the most recent updates.

Hannah has Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis with an "S curve". She was finally diagnosed in the beginning of 2021 after years of physical therapy and multiple doctors. After we found out, we got right to back bracing. Despite 2 years of bracing, 2 braces, and special scoliosis physical therapy, Hannah's curves continued to progress, fast.

Now her main thoracic curve is currently around 70-75 degrees and her lumbar is around 45 degrees. We are past the point of bracing and are now racing against the clock to get surgery before her next growth spurt.

I am making this gofundme in hopes to raise money to get Hannah a surgery that will avoid spinal fusion.

There were two options to look into for non-fusion surgery, vertebral body tethering (VBT) or anterior scoliosis correction (ASC). VBT would be covered by insurance, unlike ASC, but unfortunately, she is not a candidate due to her large curves, rotation in her spine, and lack of flexibility. ASC is very similar to VBT but is different in a way that allows the surgery to be performed on larger, stiffer, and rotated spines.

We have been seen by five surgeons for opinions. Two in Boston, two in New York, and one in New Jersey. With Hannah not being a candidate for VBT, all suggested fusion.

ASC is not performed by many surgeons around the country. New Jersey is home to Dr's ABC, a team of surgeons who are the founders and pioneers of ASC. After speaking with them, we learned that Hannah is a candidate for ASC! Unfortunately, with it being out of state, our insurance does not cover the procedure.

Spinal fusion for Hannah would mean fusing her spine from T2 to L3 (think lower neck to lower back). This would stop her growth, prevent bending and twisting, and would expose her to many potential risks. One being the high risk for early disc degeneration and vertebral deterioration (said to be even higher beacause I have early degenerative disc disease and severe arthritis of the spine).

ASC surgery would allow Hannah to continue to grow and have the flexibility to do so many things that she has already missed out on because of pain or a general lack of ability due to her scoliosis. Her first goal? "Walking on the beach without hurting, and playing on the beach playground".

The total amount for the surgery, anesthesiologist, and hospital stay is more than I'd like to admit, and I do believe that this is a very long shot. But anything helps in getting us there and I'd appreciate anything and everything anyone could provide.

We need to come up with a $35,000 deposit just to book an appointment. The deposit covers part of the surgeon's fee. Then, 4 to 6 months later, another $25,000 will be due. The total surgeon fee is $60,000. I am hoping to get insurance to cover some of the hospital and anesthesiologist fees.

At this point, I have exhausted all options.

Every single penny helps and we would appreciate any help, even if it's simply advice or support.

Thank you for reading.