Jamie\'s Wellness Fund

All my life, I've had immune system issues, from severe eczema that started before I turned two, to a skin infection that was misdiagnosed, resulting in my spending months in the hospital and losing much of my skin, to cataracts in both eyes by the time I was a teenager.

Although I continued to have health issues over the years, including several surgeries, I've been able to work and live an active life. I've also committed a great deal of time volunteering for causes and organizations I believe in.

Early this year, my immune system issues got far more severe. With constant pain all over my body, swollen and stiff joints, and steady exhaustion, the doctors initially thought I had rheumatoid arthritis. As the months passed, with hair loss, new skin rashes and weight loss added to the mix, they thought I might have lupus. I am continuing to see doctors, get tests and pursue a definitive diagnosis, leaving little time and energy for anything else.

Because my hair was thinning so badly, I had to cut off my locks that I loved. And cooking, one of my favorite things, became harder and harder to do because of swollen and painful hands and lack of energy.

My friends and my therapy group have been amazing and supportive. Not doing this alone has made a big difference, and I have begun to explore non-traditional medicine. I have started acupuncture, which is helping, so I'd like to continue and also try other treatments. With the tough economy, I'm glad to be working, but my job doesn't pay much, and I don't get sick days or health insurance. Since I don't have the extra funds for alternative medicine, I'm raising money so that I can afford acupuncture treatments, reiki, massage, and additional supplements and nutritional alternatives.

Help me get better, so I can get back to helping to create a better world.