Aid Matthew's Healing Journey: Surgery Costs

Help Matthew Heal and Stay on Track for His Engineering Dreams

Hello!

My name is Matthew Werner. I’m a full-time engineering student, a part-time physics tutor, a part-time restaurant server, and a dedicated strength athlete. As I prepare to start full-time at the UC San Diego Jacobs School of Engineering this fall, I’ve encountered a challenge I can’t overcome alone.

In April, I suffered an injury resulting in a torn meniscus. Unfortunately, it requires surgical repair and will not heal on its own. As a low-income student, I’ve faced many obstacles in my educational journey, but nothing is more humbling or difficult than dealing with a major health issue at a time when I do not have a safety net.

The surgery will cost me $4,500 out of pocket. On top of that, I’ll be moving apartments and starting at a new school this summer. My recovery will keep me out of work for up to six weeks, and I will have much difficulty getting around as I will be on crutches throughout that time.

If I cannot raise the funds, I risk worsening my injury while waiting for my student health plan to take effect in a few months — and even then, the wait for care could stretch even longer. Delaying treatment could have serious, lasting consequences for my mobility, strength, and overall health.

I’m reaching out to ask for your help. Any amount you can contribute would make an incredible difference. Your support would not only help cover my surgery and living expenses during recovery but also allow me to continue pursuing my engineering education and supporting my family.

Thank you for reading my story and for any help you can give. My family and I would be deeply grateful and forever thankful for your generosity.