My name is Crioa, and I’m reaching out because I need surgery that my insurance company will not cover. After exhausting every appeal option, I’ve learned that if I want this surgery to happen, I have to pay for it myself. This has been a difficult reality to accept, but I’m hopeful that with your support, I can get the care I need.

My health challenges began after a surgery in April 2024 that did not go well. I struggled to recover and spent nine months unable to eat or drink without vomiting. Even walking across a parking lot left me nearly passing out. I had to visit OHSU’s cancer facility every other day for IV fluids and nutrition, but despite everyone’s best efforts, I lost significant weight and suffered the effects of malnutrition. In September, I faced another emergency when my intestines twisted and strangulated, requiring hours of surgery to untwist them. Since then, I’ve continued to experience significant, on-and-off pain and ongoing complications.

This upcoming surgery is my chance to regain my health. It will allow me to eat and drink normally again, and fix the pocketing in my abdomen that caused my intestines to twist. I know that being able to nourish myself and prevent future complications will be life-changing. I am deeply grateful for any help I receive—whether it’s a financial contribution, pet sitting, helping me clean my house, covering a shift at work, or taking me to an appointment. I’ve always tried to help my community whenever I can, and being the one who needs help now has been a difficult change. But I have been met with nothing but love and kindness, and I am so thankful for your support.