Hello, my name is Michelle, and I am a stay-at-home mother of three children. I have been living with Type 1 Diabetes since the age of one and have struggled to manage the condition throughout my life. Prior to having children, I neglected my diabetes, resulting in frequent hospitalizations in the ICU. However, upon becoming a mother, I took control of my illness, but the years of neglect had already taken their toll.

Approximately a month after the birth of my first child in 2020, I was diagnosed with Diabetic Retinopathy. The poor management of my diabetes led to hemorrhages in the blood vessels of my eyes, causing my vision to be severely impaired. I began receiving treatment from a specialist, including laser therapy and injections. Following the birth of my second child in 2021, my retinopathy worsened, necessitating surgical interventions, including a vitrectomy. Fortunately, after a series of eye surgeries, my vision was restored.

I have continued to manage my diabetes effectively, and my eye health has remained stable. However, my retina specialist recently informed me that cataracts have developed in both eyes, requiring surgical removal. While cataracts are a common age-related condition, my medical history has accelerated this process.

I am fortunate to have health coverage through Medicaid, but most insurance providers do not cover the cost of the lasers used in the surgery or the custom lenses required. As a stay-at-home mother in a single-income household, we are facing significant financial constraints. We have exhausted all other options and are now seeking assistance to ensure that I do not lose my sight and can continue to care for my children.

I appreciate any and all support in this challenging situation.

Thank you sincerely,

-Michelle