I’m raising funds to help cover medical care and basic living expenses while I wait for my Social Security Disability appeal hearing after becoming disabled by chronic illness.

I’ve been an RN for almost 16 years, but have been unable to work since developing severe chronic illness after getting COVID for the first time in 2022. I’ve now been completely disabled for almost four years, and after waiting more than a year for a decision, my Social Security Disability (SSDI) claim was recently denied again. I’m in the appeal process, but it can take years.

In the meantime, I’m raising funds to help cover medical care and basic living expenses while I try to stay afloat and continue focusing on recovery.

I’ve had no income since November 2024 after exhausting my disability benefits and losing my job due to prolonged medical leave. Since then I’ve been living off savings, credit cards, and help from family, but none of that is sustainable in the long term.

Over the past few years I’ve been diagnosed with long COVID and other complex chronic conditions that cause constant pain, severe fatigue, and cognitive impairment. Even basic daily tasks are difficult. I’ve undergone extensive treatment, including months of IV antibiotics, surgery for nerve compression, and ongoing physical and occupational therapy. While some symptoms have improved, I’m still far from functional and continue to require ongoing care.

Before all of this, I dedicated my career to caring for others as a nurse, and have overcome injuries and health issues that disabled me for shorter periods of time. I worked extremely hard to build my career and eventually became a labor & delivery nurse, certified in my specialty and as a lactation consultant. It’s incredibly difficult to go from being a healthcare provider to someone who struggles with managing their own health every day.

My biggest ongoing expenses right now are pain management treatments and medical care not fully covered by insurance.

As uncomfortable as it is to ask for help, I’m trying to stay afloat while I continue the long disability appeal process and focus on healing. Without additional support, I’m increasingly worried about how long I’ll be able to continue living on my own.

Funds raised will go toward medical expenses not covered by insurance, pain management treatments, medications and supplements, and the debt I’ve accumulated while unable to work. They will also help cover essential living expenses so my pets and I can remain in our home, and the cost of maintaining my nursing license and professional certifications.

Any amount helps, and sharing this fundraiser means just as much if you’re not able to donate. Thank you so much for your support.