She found herself paralyzed from her legs down, with no reason why.
Like many of us, Dolores is an active adult who enjoys being a member of her community and church. Three years ago, Dolores started struggling with minor back pain and, eventually, mobility overall. She sought out help from her doctor, but was unsuccessful in finding an initial diagnosis.
As time progressed, her pain level increased, eventually accompanied by numbness and a tingling sensation down her legs. She fought to stay independent and mobile, but ultimately found herself paralyzed from the legs down with no definitive answer.
Hospital tests finally revealed a massive non-benign tumor on her spine causing the paralysis and pain.
Dolores’ doctors decided that surgery would be best, so she underwent a successful surgery and later began the {slow} process of rehabilitation. Despite the recent major surgery, Dolores had one goal:
“I want to be able to walk again, have balance, and live that independent life that I led.” -Dolores
During her rehabilitation process, Dolores needed a wheelchair to accommodate her need of independence. Although she was insured, the insurance company said they would review her request for a wheelchair – which could take upwards of 6 weeks – but couldn’t guarantee approval. Through grant funding from the Texas Veterans Commission, we were able to assist Dolores with the desired wheelchair, so she could safely return to her active life, while still recovering.
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Dolores is grateful for Project MEND, because we gave her a start to regaining her independence.
EVERY MOMENT COUNTS
By placing the right piece(s) of equipment into the hands of a person who has no other means to acquire it, lives are transformed and valuable pieces of medical equipment are kept out of local landfills. What we do is simple, innovative, and unique: we provide refurbished medical equipment and other assistive technology devices to individuals who need it.
Place much needed equipment into the life of a person living with a disability today.
