A local nurse who is used to helping others is now looking for help herself.
Kayla Gammon, 27, has lost the function of her arms due to Thoracic Outlet Syndrome (TOS). TOS is described as a compression of the nerves, arteries, and veins in the neck, between the rib and collarbone and the chest muscles.
Michelle Bonaventura, Gamnon's fiancee, says Thoracic Outlet Syndrome is a debilitating condition that takes away a person's quality of life.
"Kayla’s constant pain has impacted all areas of her life," said Bonaventura.
'The pain reaches from her neck, down each arm, across the chest, and into her back. Kayla is significantly limited in her physical abilities, and performing routine daily tasks intensifies her already high level of pain."
Bonaventura says Kayla had to quit her job at the hospital to pick up less physically intense types of work as her pain intensified.
"Now Kayla’s weakness and pain are so intense that she is unable to work," said Bonaventura.
"She had to give up all of her hobbies of volunteering at various animal clinics, painting, drawing, and writing as she slowly lost the function of her arms. Even everyday tasks like brushing hair, preparing food, and even putting on clothes has become almost impossible to do due to the pain."
Bonaventura says it has been a challenge for Kayla even to find out exactly what was wrong with her.
After multiple tests in both Canada and the U.S., Kayla and her family have come to the conclusion that the best treatment option is south of the border.
And due to the expense which could hit as high as $300,000, Bonaventura and the family have started a GoFundme page looking for support.
"This has forced her and her family to seek treatment from a well-known specialist in the states (Boston)," states the GoFundMe page.
"Being an out-of-country surgical treatment, all costs are out-of-pocket and we are now turning to the community for help to get this nurse's life back! The surgery will first do rib removal, neck and chest muscle removal on both sides and cleaning of the brachial plexus (nerve). This will allow for proper blood flow and nerve function in her arms/chest."
Bonaventura hopes they can raise enough money to get Kayla the surgery that would help allow her to get back to her life.
As of Thursday evening, the GoFundme page had just eclipsed the $9,000 mark.
For more information check out the GoFundme Page
