My name is Courtney, and I’m a 42 year old single mom of five children. 3 boys who are 19, 15 and 15 and two daughters who are 14 and 8. I work full-time as a private investigator, both self-employed and under contract, which means I don’t receive paid leave or health insurance. I’ve always worked hard to support my family, but right now, I’m facing a medical challenge I can’t manage alone.

I’ve been diagnosed with three ovarian tumors (dermoid teratomas) and one of them is already the size of a softball. These are not typical cysts. They’re solid masses that contain tissue such as cartilage, teeth, or hair, along with pockets of fluid. They are growing extremely fast, and I know from experience that the faster they grow, the more dangerous they become.

This isn’t my first time going through this. I’ve had nine surgeries over the years to remove these tumors. Despite my repeated requests for a full removal of my ovaries to stop this cycle, doctors have refused, and each time, they return larger and more painful. During one pregnancy, a tumor grew to the size of a cantaloupe, twisted my fallopian tubes, and required emergency surgery. The pain was unbearable, and it could have cost me my life.

Right now, my biggest concern is that these tumors are growing rapidly again. If they continue, they could twist my ovaries (ovarian torsion), rupture, or cause infection. If they rupture and happen to be cancerous, that fluid could spread cancer cells through my body. The longer I wait, the greater the risk becomes. There is no way to know if they are already cancerous without having them removed and tested.

The cost of my surgery including anesthesia, hospital stay, and medication is approximately $35,000 as a cash pay patient. I don’t have insurance, and the cost of premiums and deductibles would actually exceed the cost of paying for surgery directly. On top of that, I’ll be out of work for 4–6 weeks, right through the Christmas holidays, with no paid time off to cover my bills or support my children or provide them with a joyful Christmas.

I’ve always been independent and strong — both in my work and in raising my kids. Asking for help does not come easily to me. But I need this surgery soon, before things worsen, and I can’t do it without financial help.

Every donation, no matter the size, brings me closer to getting this surgery scheduled and recovering safely. Your kindness will help me pay for my surgery, medications, and basic living expenses while I heal.

If you can’t donate, please consider sharing this campaign so it can reach others who might be able to help. Your share could make all the difference.

From the bottom of my heart, l thank you for reading, donating, and sharing my story. You’re helping me protect my health and be here for my children for many years to come.

– Courtney ❤️