Hi, my name is Nicole, and I’m asking for support to access specialized physical therapy that my insurance does not cover but is essential for my health and quality of life.

I have hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (hEDS), which has caused widespread joint instability and chronic pain, as well as significant gastrointestinal complications. I am tube-fed and live with gastroparesis and global dysmotility, which have required frequent medical care and appointments. These motility issues are directly related to my EDS and greatly impact my daily functioning.

In addition to this, EDS has led to pelvic floor dysfunction, making specialized physical therapy not optional, but medically necessary. Unfortunately, my insurance does not cover the type of physical therapy I need—care that is specifically tailored to connective tissue disorders like EDS.

Each 60-minute physical therapy session costs $250, and consistent treatment is required to see meaningful improvement. My goal is to raise enough to cover one full year of physical therapy $15,000, so I can learn the skills necessary to better manage my condition and make the most of my life.

I currently work two part-time jobs while also attending school full-time and managing a heavy schedule of medical appointments. Due to my health and time constraints, taking on a third job is not feasible right now. Despite doing everything I can, the cost of this care is simply beyond what I can manage alone.

Any donation—big or small—will go directly toward physical therapy that will help me build strength, protect my joints, reduce pain, and improve my long-term independence. If you’re unable to donate, sharing this fundraiser also means more than I can say.

Thank you for taking the time to read my story and for supporting me in any way.