Three Antagonists

Cauda Equina Syndrome, or CES, is named after the Latin word for “horse’s tail.” This is because the nerves branching off from the end of the spinal cord resemble the tail of a horse. These nerves connect to the bladder and large intestine, as well as branch into the legs. CES can lead to incontinence, leg weakness, extreme back pain, and even lower-body paralysis.

Adhesive Arachnoiditis, or AA, occurs when the lumbar and sacral vertebrae compress the nerve roots and causing the cauda equina to tangle up like a spider’s web. The web of nerves then adheres to inflamed tissues. The tissues around the affected area can atrophy, which causes muscle weakness and even paralysis. If left untreated, AA can be fatal.

Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, or EDS, is when the connective tissues don’t hold together correctly. It can lead to hypermobility (loose joints), along with weakening of blood vessels and muscles. To make matters worse, it can exacerbate CES and AA.



A Second Act

 There was only one specialist in the country who could help her. The specialist was in Los Angeles, more than 2,100 miles away. There was no way her family could afford the cost of travel. No way, that is, until Christina found out about Mercy Medical Angels. Through a partnership with Frontier Airlines, Christina was able to fly from Orlando to Los Angeles and receive life-changing care.



Back on the Stage

“Mercy Medical Angels was a total Godsend!” said Christina. “I have to travel a few times a year for this treatment, but I know they will keep helping me.”



When illness strikes, life can seem like a real-world tragic play. But with support from Mercy Medical Angels, people like Christina can stand strong on center stage... and get the happy ending they deserve!