Edited for shortness, clarity, and update!
Hello, my name is Melanie, and I am reaching out to ask for your support during one of the most challenging times of my life.
In 2023, I was struggling and was later diagnosed with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) after the pain caused me to be sent to the hospital multiple times.
About a year later, I experienced a traumatic injury and began to develop chronic pelvic pain and dull aches, which slowly worsened over time. I had to keep working, but was let go of my job due to unknown flare-ups, leaving me debilitated and crying for hours.
Shortly after, I had a diagnosis of May-Thurner Syndrome, a type of Pelvic Congestion Syndrome. In short, it's basically having deep-vein-thrombosis in my left abdomen, accompanied by sharp, sudden pains in my left leg. When the blood pools, it cannot be recirculated through the veins and can lead to blood clots and pulmonary embolisms quickly. The last 2+ years, this disease has greatly affected my sleep, appetite, overall health, and well-being in my daily life.
After many consultations and tests, my doctors (and I) agreed that the Ovarian Vein Embolization (OVE) is the best treatment option.
Unfortunately, the cost of the procedure alone is $8,000, and it is not covered by insurance. My doctors have brought the cost down from $12k to $10k and now to $8k! I'll be doing all three procedures in one day (a venogram, an embolism, and essentially clearing out the damaged tissue).
This amount only covers the surgery itself, not the additional medical expenses such as prescriptions or supplies that will come in the months of recovery. This surgery offers the chance to finally relieve the constant pain and restore a sense of normalcy in my life.
As a single mother, my biggest fear is missing out on precious moments with my child, as the pain from MTS and PCOS makes even simple activities a battle. More than anything, I want to feel nourished and healthy again; to be fully present for my Little One and return to my work as a massage therapist helping others live better lives.
I am doing everything I can to raise the funds required, but I cannot do it alone, and that’s why I am humbly asking for your support. Any contribution will bring me closer to the treatment I desperately need. If you are unable to donate, sharing this campaign with others would mean the world to me.❤️
With gratitude, health, and hope,
Melanie
Organizer
Melanie Leigh Anne Rice
Organizer
Austin, TX