Hello. My name is Reginald Skeete Jr. In July 2014, I survived a traumatic brain injury (hydrocephalus). For 45 days in the ICU, I suffered strokes, heart attacks, seizures, DIED, came back to life, then endured more strokes, heart attacks, and seizures. After 3 months of rehabilitation, I was sent home, but that’s when the struggle actually began.
Since 2014, my underlying medical condition (Arnold Chiari Malformation 1) has continued to ravage my body, slowly denying me access to bodily functions that we all take for granted. Paramount amongst these have been my ability to walk unassisted and the limited use of my hands. These limitations have had a serious negative impact on my quality of life; whether it be the jobs I’m able to work, feeling safe in the community, or even the time I’m able to spend with family and friends. There is no cure for Arnold Chiari Malformation 1. For all intents and purposes, the many surgeries I had in 2014 only served to delay the continual deterioration of my spine and the activities I’m able to do with it.
However, there is some good news. I’ve recently discovered new technologies that would help me to walk better and use my hands. The H200 Wireless can help keep my hands from clawing and the L300 Go System would allow me to move without the assistance of a walker. Unfortunately, my insurance will not cover this equipment and because of my deteriorating health, I can no longer work enough hours to pay for it. That being said, this is why I’m starting this fundraiser. I’m setting my pride aside and asking for help. The cost of both systems will equate to over $8,000.
If you’ve made it to the end of this, first and foremost, I thank you for bearing witness to my story. If you cannot donate but could forward this message on, I’d appreciate that as well. If all you can do is pray that I reach my goal, I’m thankful for that too. But if you are able to donate to my cause, I offer a special thanks in advance.