CERVICAL SPINE SURGERY

If you’re lucky enough to know Melanie, there are some things that are just obvious. Her laughter is infectious. Her smile brightens a room. She is the best little sister, and the best big sister too. She is adventurous and brave. She is loving. When Melanie was born, there wasn’t a thought in the world about Osteogenesis Imperfecta, but now it is a thought that is always at the back of our minds. Known as brittle bone disease, Melanie lacks needed Collagen in her connective tissue. This also leads to other medical complications, but the most severe being the risk of her fracturing major bones. She receives a variety of treatments and care, but coming August 6th she’ll be having her largest procedure yet: cervical spine surgery for corrections of deformities. She is finally at an age where doctors want to safely proceed with this surgery, but it will be a grueling process. The surgery is 12 hours and will require a one week hospitalization, added to the fact that it is a specialized surgery hours away from home, we’re asking for any donations to make this procedure easier. Insurance doesn’t take care of everything so we’re looking to cover: the hotel stay over the week, food, a new car sit specialized to fit her halo after surgery, gas, as well as new items at home for her recovery. We understand this has been a difficult few months for everyone, and just want to say how appreciative we are, and that every bit help.