Hi, my name is Lewis, and I’m 26 years old. After months of struggling with vocal issues, I’ve been diagnosed with a haemorrhage on my left vocal fold. This condition has severely impacted my ability to perform, and I’m reaching out for help to raise funds for the private surgery I need to get back to doing what I love: acting and singing.

The Journey So Far

In early October, while working at one of my performing jobs, I started to feel the effects of a cold. Despite being sick, I pushed through and continued working, but by the end of my shift, I had completely lost my voice. Over the next few weeks, my voice became increasingly hoarse and unreliable. I tried everything I could to recover, using all the usual vocal health remedies, but nothing seemed to help.

After a month of worsening symptoms, I saw my GP, who referred me urgently to an ENT specialist. However, after waiting for another month with no update, I reached out to BAPAM, a charity that supports performing artists. They advised me to keep contacting my GP for updates and also to look for funding to see a private ENT specialist. By January, I learned that I was on a waiting list with over 4,000 people ahead of me, and I could expect to wait over a year for an appointment.

This long wait left me feeling helpless. As my vocal condition remained unresolved, I had to decline job opportunities and auditions, and my mental health started to suffer. Eventually, in a last-ditch effort, I contacted HelpMusicians, who generously funded a private ENT appointment.

On March 24th, I saw Dr. Gibbins, who performed a laryngoscopy and diagnosed me with a haemorrhage on my left vocal fold. This has caused significant tension in my neck and throat muscles, making it incredibly difficult to perform.

What I Need

The treatment I need involves laser surgery to remove the scar tissue from my vocal fold, followed by vocal rehabilitation. The surgery itself will cost £3,732, and the cost of rehabilitation sessions is still to be determined. The recovery period will also prevent me from working, meaning I’ll need additional support for living expenses during this time.

I’ve been given a preliminary surgery date in just a few weeks, and I’m eager to get this surgery as soon as possible to begin my recovery and return to performing.

How You Can Help

I am now reaching out for your support. Any contribution, no matter how small, will make a huge difference in helping me get the treatment I need and get back to doing what I love. This vocal issue has not only put my career on hold but also had a significant toll on my mental health. Singing is everything to me and honestly not being able to do it is heartbreaking. I truly appreciate any help you can offer, whether through a donation or by sharing my story.

Thank you so much for your generosity and support. Your kindness will help me return to the stage and continue pursuing my dreams.