I am choosing to fight for the right surgery — one that removes my ovarian cysts, confirms they are not cancerous, and preserves my health. A less invasive, ovary-sparing option exists and

has been recommended to me, yet I’ve been refused access to it. This fundraiser will allow me to take control of my care and protect my future for myself and my child.

Please Help Me Access the Right Surgery

This is not a position I ever expected to be in, but after months of stress, advocacy, and difficult conversations, I’m left with no choice but to ask for help.

I’ve been diagnosed with dermoid ovarian cysts. While they are believed to be benign, there is no way to be 100% certain until they are surgically removed and biopsied.

This uncertainty alone is frightening, but what has been even harder is being denied the most appropriate treatment option.

In September, I was told by an NHS consultant that the only surgery they would offer me was open surgery, involving the removal of my ovaries, which would immediately place me into surgical menopause. This was presented as the only viable option.

Trusting my instincts, I sought a second opinion privately.

In November, a specialist confirmed that keyhole (laparoscopic/robotic) surgery is entirely possible, allowing the cysts to be removed while preserving my ovaries.

This approach offers a quicker recovery, fewer complications, and — crucially — protects my long-term health.

Despite this, the NHS has refused to provide or fund this option. Their reasoning is that a “free alternative” exists — even though that alternative is more invasive, requires a much longer recovery, and would permanently alter my health.

Removing healthy ovaries carries serious lifelong risks, including heart disease, osteoporosis, cognitive changes, and mental health impacts. These are not minor side effects; they are consequences that would affect me for the rest of my life.

As a single parent to a 4-year-old, I cannot afford a prolonged recovery, nor can I accept losing healthy organs when a safer, fertility-preserving option exists. I need to be well — not just now, but long into the future — for my child.

I formally requested treatment in England or the Republic of Ireland, where this specialised robotic surgery is available. This request was refused because the NHS considers the more invasive surgery an acceptable alternative.

I am fundraising to access the keyhole surgery with ovarian preservation that I have been advised is medically appropriate for my condition. The funds raised will go toward:

* Specialist surgical fees

* Hospital and operating theatre costs

* Diagnostic biopsy and pathology

* Travel and recovery expenses

This isn’t about preference or comfort — it’s about protecting my health, my autonomy, and my future.

I feel deeply that women deserve better than being told to accept irreversible harm simply because it is cheaper.

If you’re able to donate, share, or support in any way, I am incredibly grateful. Your kindness will help me access the care I need, recover safely, and continue being the healthy, present parent my child deserves.

Thank you for reading, for caring, and for standing with me.

Le grá,

Ciara