Princess Ella's Out of Pocket Catheter Supplies

With new health issues there are always new hurdles to jump.

Ella was diagnosed at 4 months old with SMA (Spinal Muscular Atrophy). This is a genetic disease similar to ALS but affects mainly children. The muscles in her body slowly fade. The doctors gave them less than a year with her. Miraculously, she has been enjoying life for 10 years but it has not been without struggles.

On October 29th Ella went in for a spinal fusion due to her spine having a 70% curve. There were serious complications during the surgery and we almost lost our angel. We are so blessed to still have her with us, but due to the problems in surgery she is now paralyzed from the chest down. One main issue we've encountered is with her bladder. Prior to surgery she was able to empty her bladder and let us know when she had done so. Now with no sensation or control, she has to have a catheter inserted to empty the bladder. Mom and Dad have worked hard to get trained but we ran into a roadblock because the catheter supplies are not covered by insurance. There are HUGE regulations and red tape.

They have to catheter Ella 4-6 times a day and the risk for severe Urinary Tract Infections are great the first few months. In the first 3 weeks she has already had 2 while in the hospital.

Her family has already over the last 10 years paid out of pocket for so many things it is disappointing that they now have to pay for something that she cannot live without. One month of catheter supplies have been quoted over $600 and insurance will not cover this cost.

We are trying to raise 6-7 months worth of supplies If you are able to help with this cost please click to donate and if you are not able please click to share and ask others to share. Thank you from Ella's family and friends.