Carole is a well known & loved member of the local community around Penzance, having lived here for almost 40 years. Although she is 80 years old she is in very good health except for a debilitating condition called spinal stenosis.
This narrowing of the hole in her spine compresses the nerves inside, causing pain, numbness and difficulty walking.
This condition has really progressed over the last 5 years. She is now registered as disabled & can only walk short distances with a stick. She requires a wheelchair for longer journeys.
She has lost a lot of confidence & independence. She used to enjoy walking along the coast and visiting friends, but now she cannot go far from her front door without assistance.
We all know about NHS waiting times for assessment and treatment, so Carole used her savings to pay for an MRI and a consultation with a spinal surgeon.
The news was wonderful; an operation was possible to widen the hole in three sections of her spine. It would have a 70-80% chance of success, low risk and would significantly improve her mobility and her quality of life.
However, the NHS waiting list time for this surgery is at least 2-3 years so we have decided to raise the money to pay for the operation privately, where there is availability in early April.
We know money is tight for many at the moment, and we are raising as much as possible ourselves to pay for this, but any donation, however big or small, will help us.
If you know Carole you will know what a kind, caring & generous person she is. But whether you have been friends for years or have never met her, your contribution is hugely appreciated. Thank you.