Hi, my name is Kaida (formerly Abigail). I’m 22 years old, and until recently I was living independently, working, and pursuing my Master’s degree in Counseling.

Over the past several months, my health has declined rapidly due to severe spinal and neurological complications from Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS).

My condition has progressed to the point where conservative treatments haven’t been effective. I’m now undergoing neurosurgical evaluation to determine whether surgery will be necessary to stabilize my spine and prevent further neurological decline.

In a short period of time, I went from being fully independent to largely confined to bed. I am unable to sit upright for more than a few minutes, rely on a wheelchair for mobility, and need help with basic daily activities. Because of this, I had to move from Virginia back to Maryland to live with my parents, as I can no longer safely manage things like preparing meals, household tasks, or daily care on my own.

I had to take a medical leave from graduate school and am no longer able to work.

I am currently traveling out of state for invasive neurosurgical diagnostic testing and specialist consultations to determine the next steps in my care.

Because these specialists are few in number and often out of network with insurance, the financial burden of accessing this care has quickly become overwhelming.

This fundraiser will help cover urgent medical travel, lodging, and treatment-related expenses so I can access the care I need to prevent further neurological decline and loss of function.

What Happened
My health deteriorated quickly due to complications from Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS), a genetic connective tissue disorder that affects collagen throughout the body, including the spine, joints, and nervous system.

In my case, this has led to Craniocervical Instability (CCI) and Tethered Cord Syndrome.

Craniocervical instability is instability at the base of the skull that can affect the brainstem and nervous system.

Tethered cord syndrome involves abnormal tension on the spinal cord, which can lead to progressive nerve damage.

These conditions have caused severe head and neck pain, constant neurological symptoms, autonomic instability, leg weakness, loss of sensation, and worsening nerve-related complications.

More importantly, they have significantly impacted my ability to function day to day. Activities that were once routine, like standing, walking, concentrating, or simply getting through a full day, are now difficult or impossible without severe symptoms.

Without appropriate treatment, there is a real risk that these limitations will continue to worsen or become permanent.

Why I Am Traveling Out of State
These conditions are complex and often misunderstood, and only a small number of specialists in the country are experienced in diagnosing and treating them.

I am currently undergoing neurosurgical evaluations and advanced diagnostic testing to determine the safest and most effective treatment plan, including whether surgical intervention will be necessary and which condition must be addressed first.

These evaluations are critical in determining how to stabilize my spine, protect my nervous system, and prevent further decline.

Why Financial Help Is Needed
Accessing this care requires:
• Extended out-of-state travel
• Lodging during testing and consultations
• Out-of-network specialist fees
• Medical expenses not fully covered by insurance
• Loss of income due to being unable to work

Because I am currently unable to work and require ongoing travel and specialized care, the financial strain has become overwhelming.

These treatments represent my best chance to stabilize my condition, prevent further loss of function, and regain some level of independence. A

Personal Note
This past year has been a drastic and unexpected shift in my life. Losing my independence so quickly, having to leave school, and facing the possibility of major spinal surgery at 22 has been incredibly difficult and isolating.

My goal is to regain my health so I can return to my education, rebuild my independence, and continue working toward a career in counseling.