Thank you sincerely for your generous help in spreading the message!

Maddy and many other Canadians with Tethered Cord Syndrome deserve timely, expert care for their conditions.

I would love for you to read more about TCS! NORD, The National Organization for Rare Disorders, has a detailed page on TCS.

This article explains how TCS is most often congenital -- a neural tube defect caused during embryonic development. 

As NORD states:

"In the past, the diagnosis of tethered cord syndrome has been controversial and the disorder often still remains unrecognized and underdiagnosed. After many years of skepticism, tethered cord syndrome is now considered a distinct clinical entity." 

The peer reviewed literature speaks to the reality of TCS for many pediatric and adult patients. However, its lack of recognition can lead to health professionals dismissing patient symptoms.

Like Maddy, many TCS patients can't even access diagnosis in Canada. 

The lack of general awareness of TCS and its evidence base means that only experts in TCS can provide reliable diagnosis and treatment. And TCS surgery is not covered by provincial insurance like MSI, which in turn can affect private insurance coverage.

Thank you for signing this petition to help address this gap in Canadian medical care! Please share with 10 friends if you are able.

With gratitude, 

Paula