Advocate for Aya: Help a Chronically Ill Teen Get Treatment

Hi my name is Aya! I am 18, chronically ill and living in London in the UK.

I’m fundraising to be seen by a private Cardiologist for ongoing, unexplained heart and neurological symptoms that are impacting my daily life and education. I am currently experiencing severe chest pain, muscle weakness, balance issues, abnormal heart rate and blood pressure readings that fluctuate unpredictably — sometimes reaching very high levels while I’m just sitting or even eating. All of these symptoms have a massive impact on my mobility, sleep and mental health.

In 2024 I received a diagnosis of Left Ventricular Hypertrophy (LVH) via the NHS, however my symptoms have worsened since this diagnosis and due to pressures in the NHS I am unable to be seen by an NHS Cardiologist until late 2025 possibly 2026. My new symptoms are not something that my GP or A&E can help me with so each day is spent in excruciating pain, worrying that I may have a heart attack.

I am currently enrolled at sixth form and I have a dream of attending university and becoming a Forensic Scientist or Crime Scene Investigator. But right now my health challenges are preventing me from attending sixth form because I’m in constant pain and dealing with mobility issues that make even leaving the house difficult. I have exams this summer and I would love to be able to find a solution to my health condition so I can attend sixth form and pass my exams.

Other 18 year olds are completing their studies, planning their future, driving, travelling, experiencing freedom and I spend each day at home alone trying to manage my pain. This is taking a huge toll on my mental health as I am missing out on such an important time in my life.

I’m trying to raise around £2,000 to cover:

- A private consultation

-A tilt table test to check for autonomic issues like POTS or other forms of dysautonomia

- Follow-up appointments and any additional investigations and treatment that may be recommend.

any proceeds not used will be donated to the British heart foundation ❤️

My health has taken a toll not just me, but also on family. I’d be so grateful for any support, I know times are tough for everyone so even a sharing my page helps massively!

Thank you for reading and for standing with me while I try to get the care I need ❤️

Love, Aya x

#AdvocateForAya