Local musicians band together to play for a cause

A talented musician who once loved nothing more than play a few riffs on his guitar is now just happy he can tie his own shoes.

Shea Bonney, a 34-year-old musician who lives in Calgary, is slowly getting his life back together after having the controversial chronic cerebrospinal venous insufficiency treatment in the United States Aug. 1 to address his Multiple Sclerosis (MS). The treatment is controversial because it is not offered in Canada.

Bonney said the impact of the treatment has been profound, but he is upset he could not have accessed the care closer to home and have it covered through medicare.

I feel betrayed and I dont understand how we cannot offer something so simple in Canada, he said. I feel abandoned. I dont understand how they could leave us in the dark at least they could do is try.

As a result of the treatment, which is mainly angioplasty in the neck to improve blood flow, Bonney said his quality of life has improved dramatically. He is no longer using a cane, he now has the use of his hands again and vision has improved.

Bonney admitted he does not know how long the affects of the treatment will last, but having his life back has made the journey worthwhile.

There are no words to describe what this has meant to me, he said of the treatment. It has changed my life completely. I can wash my hair on my own, do my laundry, tie my shoes.

Although the treatment has substantially improved Bonneys life, chronic cerebrospinal venous insufficiency treatment comes at a price. His family paid more than $15,000 to cover the costs of the treatment and travel.

Now friends and family are trying to help recoup those costs through a variety of fundraisers including a concert at The Steak Pit in Bragg Creek on Aug. 15 called Play for the Cause.

The event is being organized by Jerrie Holland, a family friend who found out about Bonneys health issues through his father.

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Local musicians band together to play for a cause