Full Spinal Fusion Removal Surgery Campaign

Hello Lovelies! I'm Lee, a 20-year-old female, absolutely hoping you're all taking good care of yourselves! :-)

Today, I come with a heavy heart, seeking opinions and advice from this wonderful community. In the past six years, I underwent two full spinal fusion surgeries. The first, lasting around two years, was unfortunately botched, with everything imaginable going wrong (except paralysis). Four years ago, I found an incredible surgeon who successfully performed my second full spinal fusion, providing immense relief. Now, after four years, a mechanical malfunction caused my right rod to snap. Observing the left rod, I notice an assembly of screws in my lower back and hip, connected to my hips due to a 1.5 slip on the last disc. The snapped area lacks screws. Seeking opinions, I traveled from Portugal to South Africa, where my trusted orthopedic surgeon is based. Multiple surgeons confirmed my spine's fusion, and scoliosis is no longer present. This, to me, seems a valid reason to consider removing these rods. They acknowledged it's possible but presented unnecessary excuses. Contrary to their assurances, living with the snapped rod is causing deformity, shrinking, and disproportionate growth. I experience severe daily pain, with protruding screws under my skin causing chafing, and unsettling sounds emanating from my spine. It's a distressing lifestyle, and my nerves feel damaged. Financial trials exacerbate my situation. Urgently needing another surgery, the surgeon is willing to help, but I lost medical aid a year ago when I left South Africa for Portugal. I reapplied, and though they cover all non-spinal medical costs, due to it being a pre-existing issue, spinal procedures are excluded. They advise waiting until September 2024 for coverage, but I can't afford to wait, as this has become a life-or-death matter. In South Africa, financial aid is crucial, with surgery costs ranging from R800,000 to R1,000,000. In this third-world economy, I lack the funds and must turn to fundraising. I seek advice on how to set this up urgently. If anyone can guide me through this process, it would be immensely appreciated. Your understanding and support mean the world to me. Have a stunning day, lovely people! Love, Lee Xx