I’m reaching out with a humbled and hopeful heart.

For nearly six years—ever since getting COVID in 2020—I’ve been battling one medical issue after another. But nothing could have prepared me for the disabling effects of a spontaneous cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak that’s left me almost completely bedridden since February.

I spend 95% of my day lying flat just to keep from collapsing under the crushing pressure and pain that come with low spinal fluid pressure. I can’t sit or stand for more than a few minutes, and even simple things—like taking a shower, walking a few steps, or spending time with my family—are nearly impossible. The longer this goes on, the worse I seem to get—and with that, I begin to lose hope of a full recovery.

My independence, passions, and ability to live a normal life have been taken from me.

Before this, I was active, independent, and the one who took care of everyone else. Now my husband and daughter have become my caretakers, juggling work, school, housework, and my medical needs. It’s turned all our lives upside down.

In June a spinal tap at Penn confirmed what we already suspected—my spinal pressure was zero. This pretty much confirms a CSF leak, and explains why my symptoms are so severe. Unfortunately, my local doctors don’t have the specialized experience to locate and fix it so I have to go where they do.

I applied to two of the top CSF leak centers in the country in July—the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, MN, and UC Health in Aurora, CO—and have been on their waitlists for months. After months of waiting, I finally got the call I'd been waiting for. The Mayo Clinic accepted me as a patient! This could finally be my chance at real healing and a normal life again.

I was extremely fortunate to snag a cancellation for an appointment next month with the most sought-after CSF leak doctor at Mayo. However, getting there—and covering the costs of the flight, lodging, meals, lost income, and out-of-pocket medical expenses—is something we could really use your help with. The trip will be approximately two weeks long, and the expenses will add up quickly, especially since we’ll likely need to fly first class so I can recline far enough to prevent my vitals from crashing from sitting upright.

This trip represents my best shot at recovery. Every donation and share brings me one step closer to getting my life back.

Thank you so much for taking the time to read my story and be a part of this journey with me. Every bit of help means the world to us.

With love and gratitude,

Mandy