Lala needs a limb

Lauren Sheely is organizing this fundraiser.

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Hello my name is Lauren, although most of you know me as Lala. I hope this message finds you well. I wanted to take a moment to share something very personal and difficult that has happened to me recently.

As some of you may have heard, I was involved in an accident that resulted in a medical emergency. Due to the severity of the situation, I became unconscious and remained in that state for approximately 18 hours. Sadly, the person with whom I was staying did not see it as necessary to call an ambulance during this time. Instead, he simply gave me a blanket and went upstairs to bed, unaware of the danger I was in.

When he eventually realized that I was still unresponsive on the floor, medical help was finally sought. However, instead of immediately proceeding with surgery, the hospital placed me in isolation for 11 days under the assumption that I had contracted COVID-19. This delay hindered my progress and prevented me from receiving the necessary surgical treatment for compartment syndrome, a condition that developed as a result of the prolonged lack of circulation. It was a difficult and painful experience, to say the least.

During those 11 days in isolation, I felt a sense of frustration and helplessness. I knew that time was of the essence, and every passing moment without proper medical attention meant more damage to my body. The isolation also took a toll on my mental well-being, as I yearned for human connection and support during such a challenging time.

Eventually, I underwent a series of 12 operations to remove the necrotic tissue from my arm and leg. These surgeries were necessary to save my life, but they came at a great cost. As a result, I had to make the difficult decision to amputate my right leg and accept the loss of motor function in my right hand.

The physical changes were devastating, but what hit me even harder was the loss of my sense of self. I had always taken pride in my appearance and my beauty, and now I found myself feeling incomplete and insecure. It was a difficult adjustment to make, both physically and emotionally. I went from being an independent, active individual to relying on a wheelchair for mobility.

However, despite all the challenges I have faced, there is still hope within me. I was fortunate enough to be issued a charity prosthetic limb, although it doesn't allow me to walk. It is a basic leg that helps with balance and relearning how to walk. While I am grateful for this prosthetic, it is not the ideal solution for me.

Unfortunately, I have encountered numerous obstacles in obtaining the necessary support and resources. I applied for disability and Medicaid but was denied both. Additionally, my insurance through the Affordable Care Act still requires me to pay 25% of the overall cost of a new leg. With high deductible insurance, the expenses quickly add up.

The leg that I truly need and desire is not even covered by my current insurance plan. In fact, I was initially denied when I first requested this specific leg, but the orthotics place appealed the decision on my behalf. At that time, I was feeling broken and defeated, unable to advocate for myself. However, with their support, I found the strength to keep fighting for what I need.

So now, here I am, reaching out to all of you—my family, friends, and even strangers—for help. It's not easy for me to ask for assistance; in fact, it goes against everything I thought I knew about myself. But desperation has a way of breaking down our barriers and showing us what truly matters.

If you could find it in your heart to donate even just a dollar towards my cause, it would mean the world to me. Every contribution, no matter how small, brings me one step closer to regaining my independence and feeling like myself again. And if you're unable to donate at this time, your prayers and well wishes are equally appreciated.

I want nothing more than to be viewed as normal again, to have the opportunity to walk and move freely without limitations. It's not just about physical mobility; it's about reclaiming my sense of self and regaining the confidence I once had.

The cost of a new leg, including all the necessary components, is approximately $2400. This amount may seem daunting, especially considering the financial challenges I am currently facing. However, I firmly believe that with the support of my community, we can make this happen.

I understand that times are tough for many people, and asking for financial assistance is never easy. But I also know that kindness and generosity can have a ripple effect on someone's life. Your donation, no matter how small, will make a significant difference in my journey towards recovery.

To facilitate the donation process, I have set up a fundraising page where you can contribute directly. You'll find the link at the end of this message. Every dollar raised will go towards covering the costs of the prosthetic and the necessary components for it to function properly. Your support will not only help me regain my physical mobility, but it will also restore my hope and belief in the power of community.

I want to take a moment to express my deepest gratitude to those who have taken the time to read this message and consider supporting me. Your compassion and willingness to help mean more to me than words can express. I am truly humbled by your generosity.

In addition to monetary donations, there are other ways you can contribute to my journey. If you have any connections or resources that could assist me in obtaining affordable medical care or prosthetic options, please don't hesitate to reach out. Your knowledge and guidance could make a world of difference for me.

Furthermore, I kindly ask for your understanding and patience as I navigate through this challenging time. Recovering from such a traumatic event takes both physical and emotional strength, and there are bound to be ups and downs along the way. Your continued support andencouragement will be invaluable