Ivanhoe Ardiente of Davao del Sur, the Philippines has sustained major damage from an unmanaged, autoimmune disease, Ankylosing Spondylitis. The disease is a ruthless companion. Inflammation causes bony fusion of connective tissue. The process is excruciatingly painful and vicious. Over the last decade and a half, miraculous medical strides have been made in managing the disease more effectively.
The fortunate have access to expensive treatments, such as Remicade and other immune suppressive therapy options. Due to unmanaged disease Ivanhoe's entire spine is calcified. Other than his extremities he is incapable of bending or moving his torso. Ankylosing Spondylitis has calcified Ivan's hips and right shoulder and is in the process of fusing his left shoulder. Ivanhoe's jaw is narrowing and is feared to fuse eventually. Yes, it's very much like living within a prison inside the skeleton. Can you imagine not being capable of bending or sitting? Can you imagine a future not knowing how extensive the damage will be? Ivanhoe waits for a miracle made possible through the kindness and generosity of others. A double hip replacement will make a world of difference in Ivanhoe's life. He will be capable of more independent life. He hopes to continue advocacy for those living in his community. Dr. Tim Mead of Tebow CURE Hospital will be performing the surgery in Davao City, the Philippines. We need roughly $16,000 before the surgery can be scheduled. Ivanhoe's preoperative work, surgery, and rehabilitation are an estimate to the best of the Dr. Mead's ability. Additional finances may be needed to cover unanticipated surgical or therapy expenses. The Good Samaritan Society will provide details should this be necessary. Please join us, a society of Good Samaritans in giving hip replacements to one who is incapable of providing this for himself. May Ivanhoe experience a release from the prison his body is making. For ease, you can donate using Paypal on a website created and gifted by friend, Cookie Hopper. You may also give through YouCaring. If you desire, a check or money order can be sent to:
Ivan's Hope-The Good Samaritan Society
PO Box 620444
Charlotte, North Carolina 28262
*Sponsored by The Good Samaritan Society-a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization
About Ivanhoe:
Ivanhoe Ardiente is an artist, a humanitarian and an environmental advocate. Ivan is a father to Renz Mark, who is finishing his final year of university. Ivanhoe has an adorable dog named, Audrey. To view more about Ivanhoe's talents, community and heart visit photos on this page
