Hi there, my name is Zoë. I’m raising funds to help cover the medical expenses and testing related to my suspected diagnosis of dermatomyositis. I’ve been dealing with these health issues for about a year now, and I’m reaching out for support as I continue trying to get the proper care.

Dermatomyositis is a rare autoimmune disease that can cause progressive muscle weakness, skin damage, and even affect the lungs if it’s not treated early. Getting proper care as soon as possible is really important.

I want to be upfront and clear—I do not have the final confirmed diagnosis yet because I’m still waiting for specialist testing. However, based on my symptoms, lab findings, and physical presentation, the doctors I’ve seen strongly suspect dermatomyositis, and my care is being managed under that assumption while we wait for rheumatology.

Unfortunately, there’s a major shortage of accessible rheumatology care in my area, which has pushed my diagnostic testing much further out than it should be. Even simple things like standing up, walking around my home, lifting light objects, and getting ready for the day have become difficult because of the muscle weakness. I can provide medical documentation privately upon request for anyone who wants verification, but I’m keeping most of my records offline for privacy.

To explain a bit of my backstory, my symptoms first started with peeling skin on my feet. Over the months, the itching and burning became intense, and large red rashes began spreading up my legs and are now appearing on my arms and along my entire body.

I’m also experiencing muscle weakness that is making everyday tasks increasingly difficult. I’ve been to the emergency room more times than I can count, seen multiple dermatologists, and visited several other doctors while trying to get answers and appropriate treatment.

While I am covered by my father's insurance, there are still a lot of out-of-pocket costs that insurance doesn't account for. I am only a few months away from turning 26, and I will be kicked off his insurance and have to move to state-run insurance.

This fundraiser will go directly towards:

• ER visits

• Physical therapy

• Potential IVIG infusions

• Medications

• Specialist appointments

• Travel costs for treatment

• Tests not covered by insurance

• Loss of income during recovery

• Helping relieve the financial burden on my family

• Beyond this primary issue, we have so many other medical issues to address. Dental and mental healthcare costs have also been overwhelming.

Thank you so much for taking the time to read this and for any support you’re able to offer. Whether it’s donating or simply sharing, it truly helps more than you know, and I’m deeply grateful.

This process has been incredibly overwhelming, but I’m doing everything I can to stay hopeful and get the care I need.

I just want to feel like myself again, back to working and living normally. I’m hopeful that with the right treatment and support, things can improve. Thank you for taking the time to read my story.