A YOUNG Raphoe footballer has to undergo life-changing surgery after being diagnosed with a condition that forced her to give up her beloved sport.
Kacey Blackburn has to travel to Turkey in May for spinal surgery.
Kacey, a talented footballer with Raphoe Town FC, was diagnosed with Idiopathic Scoliosis in late 2019.
The teenager has two curves in her spine which are said to be progressing daily
“She is currently in a lot of pain and is on daily medication to help ease this,” said family friend Sharon McColgan, who has set up a GoFundMe page to assist with the medical costs – https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-kacey-be-pain-free
“I have known Kacey from birth and growing up Kacey loved sport, was extremely active playing football, swimming and all the activities that children enjoy.
“Unfortunately, Kacey had to give up her beloved soccer, which she played in the boys and girls leagues, due to the pain.
“Presently, Kacey’s mobility is limited, she is unable to run, can only walk short distances and is unable to sit or stand for any period of time without taking pain relief.”
Kacey requires a double row, double curve spinal surgery and, due to growth, there is a limited time window for the procedure.
The operation is only available in Turkey and the family needs to raise €65,000.
Idiopathic Scoliosis can occur in adolescents who go through a growth spurt in early teens and the condition affects girls eight times as often as it affects boys.
Over €12,000 has already been raised and you can donate here to help: https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-kacey-be-pain-free
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