❤️ Edit:

I had nerve surgery on the 19th. Fibrotic bands were found on the median nerve and also the radial nerve.

The surgery cost was €11,000.

Many thanks to everyone for all your support and kindess!

❤️ Who am I?

Hi, my name is Rachel. I’m in my 20s and I’m urgently raising funds to prevent permanent nerve damage and muscle wastage (atrophy) in my hands and arms.

I’ve developed severe bilateral nerve compression, which has taken a huge toll on me. I currently have a working diagnosis of carpal tunnel syndrome and probable pronator teres syndrome, creating a "double crush" effect in both arms. This will most likely be confirmed via intraoperative diagnosis. I was diagnosed with carpal tunnel syndrome in November 2024 and probable pronator teres syndrome in April 2025. Both of these disorders are progressive. However, despite worsening symptoms and a private referral marked urgent, I’ve now been waiting almost 11 months for an initial public hospital appointment.

Pronator teres syndrome is a rare nerve compression disorder (1 in 100,000). While many people improve with conservative treatment, severe bilateral cases like mine can progress rapidly and lead to permanent nerve damage and lifelong disability if left untreated.

My recent nerve conduction study found significant pathology, suggesting considerable deterioration and motor loss in the past few months. Recent tests found that my median motor amplitudes (nerve signal strength) have reduced by over half within four months. This finding suggests rapid axon loss and ongoing damage to motor nerve fibres. My grip strength has also been severely reduced on both sides. I am currently experiencing motor deficits, particularly within my hands. This greatly affects my day-to-day living. I can no longer write well or engage with any of my hobbies without experiencing pain.

I’ve spent over €3,500 on medical costs alone, trying to access timely care privately, and I’m reaching the point where I may lose the use of my arms permanently without urgent surgical intervention. The neuropathic pain and numbness have become unbearable. Since February 2025, I’ve been unable to work, study or use my hands properly for months. I’m trying to survive on my own with Illness Benefit.

If I do not proceed with surgery (or if my condition reaches the point of no return), I risk further axon loss, irreversible weakness, chronic pain, muscle wastage (atrophy) and possibly lifelong disability.

❤️ What I Need

A specialist surgeon abroad has agreed to meet me for a consultation next week. He is experienced in treating complex upper-limb compression and surgery is likely imminent.

The estimated cost for the surgeries, including travel and post-operative care, is estimated to be anywhere between €12,000 to €15,000 for both arms, depending on the final surgical quote. I will find out the exact figure next week.

If the cost ends up being lower, all excess will go toward medical recovery and helping me access physiotherapy and complete my final university module. If the cost ends up being higher, I’ll share the updated quote here. My priority is getting better and living a normal life again.

Financially, this has been very stressful. I’m trying to raise the remaining funds so I don’t lose the use of my hands and arms, possibly for life.

❤️ Why This Matters

This condition has taken away my independence. I can’t write, create art, cook or even do basic tasks anymore. My future is on hold indefinitely. I’m currently completing a postgraduate degree in psychology, and everything is at risk.

This past year has been incredibly challenging, both physically and emotionally. Without urgent surgical intervention, I may also be forced to drop out of the degree I’ve worked so hard to complete. I am at risk of experiencing life-altering consequences for my health.

I’m terrified of the damage becoming permanent, and losing everything I’ve built in life so far. I have watched my limbs deteriorate and it feels like a race against the clock.

❤️ How You Can Help

Any donation, no matter how small, brings me closer to surgical intervention and the chance to recover and to live a normal life again.

If you can’t donate, that’s okay. Please consider sharing this fundraiser with others, including friends, colleagues, TDs, advocacy groups or anyone else who may be able to help to offer support or to raise awareness.

Thank you for reading, and thank you for giving me a chance to heal and rebuild my future.

With all my heart,

Rachel

❤️

Note: I will write the exact figures for the surgeries when I receive the quote.