Samantha Smith: “I feel fixed”

Samantha Smith has revealed that she “feels fixed” after a seemingly-successful life-saving operation in America.

Samantha’s ‘lifetime fix’ operation went ahead on 11 February, a 10-hour operation removing movement in her spine by stabilising her vertebrae with fusion and hardware from inside her throat and the back of the neck. 

• www.rochdaleonline.co.uk/news-features/2/news-headlines/126023/samantha-smith-undergoes-lifesaving-operation-in-arizona

Speaking on Saturday (23 February), Sam confirmed she was set to be discharged “within hours”.

She said: “I feel fixed, and that’s a good thing to say.

“I woke up from this surgery and knew I was stable.

“The pain management has been so much better, and the care here has been incredible.

“I would not be here if it were not for every single one of you. Thank you.”

 

 

Samantha, a psychotherapist and brave mum of two from Smithy Bridge, was diagnosed with Ehlers Danlos Syndrome (EDS) in December 2016 - a genetic condition causing faulty connective tissue that can lead to further medical complications. 

Only months later, she was also diagnosed with Craniocervical Instability (CCI), a secondary condition linked to EDS that meant the ligaments in Samantha’s neck were too stretched and weakened to support her head, causing the top of her spine to squash her brainstem under the weight of her own skull. 

Samantha will undergo further tests before she can come home.

How you can help Save Samantha 

Donations can be made via: 

Just Giving: www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/save-samantha-smith

PayPal: www.paypal.me/savesamanthapurchase 

Bank Transfer:  

Name: Save Samantha  
Account no: 90266248 
Sort code: 20-45-45 

Read more about Samantha's brave journey: 

•  www.rochdaleonline.co.uk/news-features/news-archives?type=News&Criteria=Samantha+Smith