Help Lauren get spinal surgery

We are fundraising for a friend in need and we need your help.

Lauren Swan is in need of a 2 level lumbar artificial disc replacement. Her condition gives her chronic pain, numbness in her limbs and is taking a toll on her overall mental and physical health. Lauren has been off work since March 2021, and can no longer take part in her hobbies and passions. The risks of delaying this surgery further include worsening and permanent numbness and pain, causing physical and emotional trauma.

The British Columbia Government has banned these types of surgeries from the operating room, deeming them "non-essential" and not a priority due to the ongoing pandemic. Lauren was originally given an estimate of fall 2021 but the surgery has repeatedly been pushed back now with an estimate of June at the earliest. During this time Lauren has had repeated stays in the hospital due to extreme physical pain and mental trauma.

Out of necessity, Lauren has made the difficult decision to seek care in Europe, where this surgery is being allowed. This is a very expensive option but it is the only option left. We need to help Lauren get there so she can get back to living her life. The total cost is around $30,000, and they are still short $8,500.

Before this condition took over Lauren's life, she worked as a Recreation Therapist in a hospital setting in acute medical and psychiatric care for older adults. In her free time she volunteered to help individuals with disabilities to access skiing at Mount Seymour. She is a loving and caring individual who has spent her life helping others. We hope that we can show her that same care by helping her receive this surgery and get back to helping others.