Chetra is a bright 24-year-old bank teller from Cambodia. She is one of six siblings. She likes to read magazines and listen to pop songs in her free time. At a young age, Chetra’s spine began to curve. She was diagnosed with a condition called scoliosis.
Scoliosis is a lateral curvature of the spine that causes it to bow out to the side instead of taking a natural vertical shape. The curvature has limited her ability to bend and has continued to cause pain well into her adult years. If left untreated, her spine may continue to to bend and even twist. This misalignment could cause pain in her back and pressure on her ribs.
At her most recent hospital visit, Chetra’s physicians recommended a joint arthrodesis procedure to correct her scoliosis. Surgeons will attach hardware to the curved part of Chetra’s backbone to promote straightening and stabilizing of her spine. Our medical partner, Children’s Surgical Centre, is requesting $450 to fund Chetra’s back surgery, scheduled for January 18.
Chetra’s back surgery will help alleviate the pain she is experiencing and greatly improve her quality life.