I’m starting this fundraiser quietly because my family does not know I’m doing this. I’m a stay-at-home mom living with hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, and over the years my symptoms have progressively gotten worse. That has led to several surgeries, hospital stays, and a mountain of medical bills that have put real pressure on our household.

My husband went back to school and earned a master’s degree so he could move into a better position in his career and support me being able to stay home and focus on my health. I am so grateful for the sacrifices he has made for our family. But along with the progress came more debt, including student loans, and we have been trying to carry it all while living paycheck to paycheck.

Day to day, this affects us in very real ways. It is stressful having to decide whether I should go to the hospital or see a doctor when new symptoms come up, while also thinking about cost. My husband feels like he is not doing enough, even though he would give me the world if he could. The weight of our debt makes us feel like we are one disaster away from not being able to keep a roof over our heads.

Funds will go toward:

• Car loan: $4,659.57
• Medical bills: $11,401.45
• Student loans: $39,585.06
• Mortgage: $161,948.52

I plan to put any donations directly toward these debts in that order, and I will keep track of every penny and share updates on payments. If anything is given beyond what we owe, I will put it toward helping others who are trying to do the same.

There is no emergency deadline, and I do not expect anything. But if you feel moved to help, any amount would mean less financial pressure on our family and more breathing room as I manage my health. Even sharing this fundraiser would be a kindness I will never forget.