Recently I posted a request for help needed for Ruth, a 21 year old Kichwa woman who lives in the Amazon (Pastaza province). Necessary testing has been conducted and pre-surgery medication has started, but Ruth still urgently needs surgery to remove the cranial tumor blocking her nasal passages, pushing her eye sockets apart, and pressing dangerously close to her brain. Ruth’s family does not have the money or insurance to cover the needed surgery.
Ruth has a caring doctor in the Amazon, who is leading the effort to find a qualified surgeon to operate on her. A Go Fund Me campaign, led by my friend Laurel, has raised over $16,000 for Ruth. Some funds have gone towards the necessary medical tests and evaluations by doctors from the specialties involved in a complex surgery.
Ruth’s tumor results from Paget’s Bone Disease, so Ruth is now receiving Bisphosphonate intravenously. This treatment is expected to slow tumor growth, reduce pain, and prepare her system for surgery.
The good news is that with the required surgery, Ruth is expected to thrive. She is a high school graduate and dreams of attending university to study psychology and use her degree to help others.
We are working to assemble the team of surgeons needed to perform Ruth’s complex surgery. Strong candidates have emerged, and sources of financial assistance are being explored. But even with such help, we still need funds to cover costs of such things as transportation, housing, hospital fees, and follow-up care. Please click this link to help. https://www.gofundme.com/f/lifesaving-surgery-for-ruth-to-remove-a-growing-tumor
Carly
Address: Mariscal Sucre, Cuenca, Azuay, Ecuador
