Hi, my name is Caitlin Blanton, and this is something I never imagined I would have to do — but I’m at my breaking point, and I truly need help.

I’m 35 years old, a mom to two amazing boys, and I’m living with severe rheumatoid arthritis. My knees have deteriorated so badly that I need both replaced. Finding a surgeon willing to perform the procedure at my age has been a 5-year battle. I’ve seen providers across Georgia, at the Mayo Clinic in Florida, and even in Virginia — all of them turned me away simply because I’m under 45.

Finally, I found a surgeon willing to help, and my surgery was scheduled for last year. But just 15 days before the operation, I lost my job of nearly 10 years. (Yes, I had FMLA, and yes, I’m taking action.) I eventually found another job, but I had to wait to qualify for FMLA again. When I was finally eligible and called to reschedule, I was told they no longer accept my insurance. So now, I’m back to square one — searching for a reputable surgeon willing to give me a chance.

In the meantime, I’ve been steroid-dependent (prednisone) for over 3 years since my last arthroscopic surgery. Without it, I physically cannot walk, and even with it, I live in constant pain. Steroid dependency comes with its own long list of side effects, but it’s the only thing keeping me mobile right now.

I’m asking for help covering my growing medical bills and hopefully making progress toward the cost of surgery. My insurance has a high deductible, so even a single ER visit for a steroid injection recently cost me $1,800.

What breaks my heart the most is what this has taken from my boys. I miss being at my sons’ baseball games. I miss just being outside with them. I miss being able to walk, stand, and be present in their lives without pain dictating everything I do.

I know times are hard for everyone, and it’s not anyone else’s responsibility to help me — but I’m out of options. If you can donate, no matter the amount, it would mean the world to me and my family. And if you can’t, sharing my story would be just as appreciated.

Thank you for reading, for caring, and for giving me hope that I can one day have my life back.