'He could wake up and be paralysed': Terrifying race against time for Sunshine Coast dad
A father-of-two with a tumour on his spinal cord could wake up paralysed any day unless he has urgent surgery the family cannot afford.
Christian Finck, from the Sunshine Coast, was diagnosed with Cauda Equina Syndrome on September 14 after doctors found a tumour blocking the fluid in his spinal cord and pressing on his nerves.
The 34-year-old needs urgent surgery in Brisbane to avoid becoming paralysed and his wife Vicki said it will cost them $22,000.
"We are unable to wait for the public system due to the severity of the tumour and where it is," Ms Finck said.
"He is already experiencing severe symptoms. We were advised he could wake up any day and be paralysed."
Mr Finck has two young sons, aged six and nine, and is currently off work while awaiting surgery.
"This will change our lives forever if we are unable to get this in time," Ms Finck said.
If Mr Finck raises the funds for his operation, surgeons will try to remove the tumour to relieve the pressure on his spine.
Cauda Equina Syndrome is a serious neurologic condition with symptoms including paralysis, impaired bladder, or bowel control.
If not treated immediately, the condition can cause paralysis or difficulty walking.
The family has started a GoFundMe page to try to raise a portion of the surgery funds.
