Chloe's Double Scoliosis Surgery

Hi, I am Morghann Blum, Chloe's mom! I am creating this fundraiser with hopes of helping cover a portion of the costs for Chloe's double scoliosis surgery coming up on June 5th, 2023.

Let's start with a little background on our sweet girl. Chloe is a 16-year-old, high school freshman. Chloe had a rough start in life, being born the only surviving fraternal twin, at 32 weeks of gestation. Though tiny, she was (and will always be) mighty. She has always been a determined, strong, artistic, caring and kind human. Over the years, she has developed a deep passion for drawing and a passion for music. She has always loved running and has always had an ambition to join the high school track team.

Right at the start of the pandemic, we received a note from the school after a routine screening, that Chloe needed to follow up with her Doctor because they noticed a curve in her spine. During this time, there were not any specialists taking new patients and the waiting lists were outrageous. Nonetheless, we scheduled and waited for her appointment date. Chloe started having more intense back pain and was having difficulty walking long distances or standing. There have been many days she would cry and break out in a sweat due to the intense pain. After seeing a local specialist, we were referred to a pediatric specialist in Orlando, Florida. At that time, we were told that Chloe had a curve nearing 50 degrees, which requires surgical intervention. We had hoped that perhaps therapy or a brace would have been a solution fit for her, because of how intense and daunting back surgery is. As is common with specialty practices, we had another long wait.

Once we finally met with her new Doctor, Dr. Woo, he ordered additional imaging and MRIs. After multiple appointments, we were told that Chloe had not only one curve but two. Her spine is in the shape of the letter s. Chloe's only option is surgery. We have had several appointments with Dr. Woo and we are more than confident that he will be able to help correct Chloe's spine and improve her quality of life. She is looking forward to being able to do many of the things we take for granted such as driving, standing straight and hopefully fulfilling her dream of joining the track and field team at her high school next year.

As of May 2, 2023, we have already spent nearly $5,000 this year alone and are still paying for any expense the insurance kicks back. The surgery she is having is a spinal fusion. The Doctor will be placing two rods and many screws in her back. These rods and screws will start at the shoulder and go all the way down to the top of her bottom (bum). She will have one more final imaging appointment, additional blood work and a 4-night minimum hospital stay after her surgery. While we do have insurance, this surgery ranges from $140k-$170k. My husband, a Deputy Sheriff, will be taking off as much time as he can to help during her surgery and her healing process. He is our primary source of income. I have reduced the number of photoshoots I would usually have booked due to the frequent Doctors appointments and her declining health. She has unfortunately missed a fair amount of time at school and has also had many days where the pain was so intense, she could not stay at school. She will stand in class or sit on the floor for most classes because of the constant pain and spasms.

Any donation would be greatly appreciated and if you are not able to donate, we would appreciate this fundraiser being shared with as many people as possible. Thank you for taking the time to read a portion of Chloe's story.