On Cinco de Mayo, I experienced the worst pain of my life in my right side and back. The pain was so severe it caused major nausea, dizziness, and vomiting. Within 30 minutes, I threw up everything, including water, and the pain intensified. I ended up in the ER, where I received two rounds of pain medication before the pain calmed down. After blood work, x-rays, and a CT scan, doctors discovered an 8mm stone in my kidney.

I couldn't provide a urine sample, so I was hooked up to multiple IV bags for several hours. I was released with a referral to a urologist specialist, whom I saw on Friday. The specialist determined that surgery called ureteroscopy is needed because the stone has moved out of the kidney, which doesn't qualify for the sound wave option. A stent may be placed depending on the condition of my kidney and surrounding areas.

Due to the size, there is less than a 40% chance I can pass the stone naturally. Surgery is scheduled for 6/1, depending on costs and insurance. Until then, I have to manage the pain as best I can.

The funds will help cover some of the surgery costs, medication, follow-up care, and expenses during my recovery. Any support you can offer would mean the world to me as I navigate this difficult time. Your kindness and generosity will help me focus on healing and getting back to my normal life.