Quadriplegic. Person sitting in a motorized wheelchair with medical equipment, including ventilation tubes, wearing a striped shirt and black boots.

Quadriplegic

When setting up a GoFundMe for someone who has recently become a quadriplegic, the amount needed will depend on the severity of the injury, the necessary treatments, and long-term care. Here's a breakdown of potential costs:

  1. Initial Medical Expenses: Hospitalization, surgeries, and immediate care following the spinal cord injury can cost anywhere from $100,000 to $500,000 depending on the severity and complexity of the injury.

  2. Rehabilitation & Physical Therapy: Intensive physical and occupational therapy, which is often required for quadriplegics, can cost $20,000 to $50,000 or more per year, depending on the duration and frequency of therapy.

  3. Medical Equipment & Assistive Devices: The person may need specialized equipment like wheelchairs, home modifications (e.g., ramps, accessible bathrooms), and other assistive devices. These can cost anywhere from $20,000 to $100,000 or more.

  4. Ongoing Care & Support: Long-term in-home care or professional assistance for daily living activities may be required, which can range from $40,000 to $100,000+ per year depending on the level of care needed.

  5. Psychological Support: Counseling or therapy to cope with the emotional and mental health challenges of adapting to life with quadriplegia may cost $2,000 to $10,000 or more, depending on the length of treatment.

  6. Lost Wages & Disability: If the person is unable to work or requires help with day-to-day activities, lost wages and caregiving costs can add significant financial burden.

  7. Assistive Technology: The person may need additional technology to assist with communication, mobility, or other activities, which can add another $10,000 to $30,000 or more.

Considering these factors, a reasonable starting goal might be $250,000 to $500,000, but if the injury is particularly severe or the individual needs extensive ongoing care, you might set a goal of $500,000 to $1,000,000 to cover the full range of expenses.