Help Me Manage Klippel-Trenaunay Syndrome

Dear friends, family, and kind supporters,

I never imagined I'd be writing this. Over the past two years, my life has been completely transformed by an unexpected and painful medical journey, one that has tested my strength in ways I never could have prepared for.

What started as unexplained knee pain turned into a year-long search for answers, leading to a diagnosis I never saw coming.

The Journey So Far

It all started in March 2023, when I began experiencing pain and swelling in my knee. I was sent to physical therapy, but my incredible therapist, Erin, sensed something deeper was going on. She worked tirelessly to help me stay mobile and encouraged me to keep pushing for answers. Despite all her efforts, things only got worse. The pain spread throughout my entire right leg, and standing became unbearable. Walking—something I once did without thinking—turned into a daily challenge.

For nearly a year, I saw countless specialists, ruled out one condition after another, and lived in a constant state of uncertainty. Then in March 2024, a vascular specialist took one look at me and immediately recognized what so many others had overlooked. The birthmark I've had all my life wasn't just a birthmark—it was a clue.

I was diagnosed with Klippel-Trenaunay Syndrome (KTS), a rare congenital and progressive disorder that causes abnormal overgrowth of veins and lymphatic vessels. In my case, it has led to malformations deep within the muscles and tissues of my right leg, causing chronic pain, swelling, numbness, and small blood clots called phleboliths.

There is no cure for KTS. Treatment focuses on long-term management, easing symptoms, and trying to slow its progression.

In May 2024, I had surgery to remove the most damaged veins. Although it was a necessary step, recovery has been much harder than I expected. The swelling and nerve pain have not gone away. Walking is still difficult, and everyday things I once took for granted—like standing, getting around, or working—now feel nearly impossible. The emotional toll has been just as heavy as the physical one.

The Part That's Hard to Say

I've always been someone who values independence. But right now, I need help. Because of this condition, I can no longer work full-time. The financial impact of being unable to work more than a few days a week, combined with the growing costs of care, has become overwhelming.

Right now, I urgently need help covering:

If you are able to donate, I am truly grateful. Every contribution, no matter the amount, helps ease the pressure and allows me to focus on healing. If you are not able to give financially, sharing this campaign is just as meaningful. Every share helps widen this circle of support and brings me one step closer to the care I need.

A Message of Gratitude

If you're reading this, thank you. Thank you for taking the time to hear my story, for caring, and for reminding me that I am not alone. This journey has been long, painful, and isolating at times, but the love and kindness I've received have kept me going.

I am especially thankful to the team at University of Florida Shands Hospital, to Erin, who never gave up on me, and to Mellenee at K-T.org, who has been a guiding light through it all.

With love and gratitude,

Hannah