Hey y’all,

This is an uncomfortable ask for me, but I’m reaching out because I could really use some help. On May 18th, I’m scheduled for spinal surgery on my neck after a roller derby injury last August left me with multiple herniated discs, severe nerve pain, and a long road to recovery.

After months of rest, physical therapy, and pain management, my symptoms only got worse—loss of strength and dexterity in my hands, numbness, and pain that made daily life nearly impossible. It took months to get an MRI, which revealed four herniated discs, degenerative disc disease, and bone spurs compressing my spinal cord. My neurosurgeon has recommended a three-level spinal fusion, which is a major surgery that will take up to a year for a full recovery. I will be out of work for at least three months after the surgery. I’m grateful I’ll eventually be able to skate again, but I have to say goodbye to playing roller derby—a loss that’s been really hard to process.

Financially, it’s been a rough stretch. Because it’s still early in the year, we haven’t hit our out-of-pocket maximum yet, so the bills are already piling up—and anyone who’s dealt with hospital stays knows there are always extra charges and surprises. My partner lost their job in December, so we’re already skating by on my income alone, and the last year has brought its own big expenses—braces for both kids, car repairs, even more medical bills, and just the general chaos of parenting teenagers while the world’s on fire. Our savings are pretty much depleted at this point. I’m grateful we had a cushion, but you can only prepare for so many storms at once, and I think we’ve hit our threshold. I’m anxious about the bills, the recovery, and all the unexpected things that come with major surgery.

If you can help—by donating, sharing this fundraiser, offering advice, or just reaching out—I would be so grateful. If you have tips for surgery or recovery, please let me know. If you want to hang out during my convalescence or you have recommendations for books and shows, I’d love that too. Thank you to everyone who’s already helped us with food, errands, and support. Your kindness means the world to me. Thank you for reading, for caring, and for being part of my community. Your help will truly make a difference as I focus on healing and getting back on my feet.

*Photo of actual bout when injury occurred. Photo credit to Bob White Photography*