In October of 2022, Hailey’s life changed dramatically when a torn meniscus in her left knee, which required surgical repair, led to a diagnosis of Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS). CRPS is known to be one of the most excruciating conditions a person can endure, often ranking higher on the McGill Pain Index than childbirth or amputation. Those with CRPS frequently describe their pain as feeling like being burned alive from the inside out. Despite their efforts with physical therapy, treatments in Idaho and Oregon, supplements and pain medications, Hailey’s pain has persisted and worsened over the past two years. Her pain has now spread from her foot and calf to her hip and both of her arms, with a daily pain level of 7 or 8 on the pain index. She endures burning, aching, and shooting pain, heightened sensitivity to touch and temperature, swelling, and discoloration. This constant discomfort severely impacts her ability to sleep, leaving her with only a few hours of rest each night.
Hailey is an active young woman with a heart for ministry and missions, who enjoyed family activities, hiking, playing soccer, and working as a barista. Her vibrant life has been profoundly altered by CRPS, significantly limiting her ability to engage in her passions. She can now manage only a few hours of office work per week and limited outings, a stark contrast to her previously active routine. Each day, she faces the challenge of managing severe pain and any relief from this unrelenting discomfort would be a profound blessing. Through this struggle, Hailey finds comfort in God’s promises, which provide her with hope and strength.
One of the most difficult challenges of CRPS is its rarity, which often leads to limited understanding among doctors and a focus on managing symptoms rather than addressing the root cause. However, close friends of the Steffensen family shared about their personal experience with the Spero Clinic in Arkansas, a medical center that specializes in treating CRPS and they encouraged the family to take Hailey there for specialized care.
Led by the renowned Quantum Neurology Nerve Rehabilitation specialist, Dr. Katinka van der Merwe, the Spero Clinic offers a comprehensive 14-week Neurological Rehabilitation Program. Dr. Katinka has successfully treated patients with CRPS from around the world, boasting an impressive 84% success rate. The success stories and miracles emerging from this clinic have given us hope and excitement for Hailey’s potential recovery.
Unfortunately, the costs associated with the Spero Clinic's treatment are not covered by insurance. Therefore, we are reaching out to request your support in helping Hailey access this vital treatment. Funds raised will go directly towards covering her treatment costs, temporary housing while at the clinic, and necessary travel expenses. Any contribution, whether large or small, would be deeply appreciated and would make a significant difference in Hailey’s journey toward a better quality of life.
For more information and to see the many inspiring stories of how the Spero Clinic has helped patients, please visit https://www.thesperoclinic.com/stories/
Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your prayers and generosity in partnering with us to help Hailey!
But this I call to mind, and therefore I have hope: The steadfast love of the LORD never ceases; His mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness.
Lamentations 3:21-23
***The Burning Limb Foundation is a 501c3 Non-Profit, 100% of the proceeds of your donation will assist in providing medical care and treatment for Hailey. If you have any questions please reach out to Philip Robert - philip@burninglimb.com