After a lifetime of unexplained pain, medical issues, and searching for answers, our dearest Ashlee was finally diagnosed with Ehlers Danlos Syndrome in 2022. A rare genetic condition caused by defective collagen, Ashlee has endured life in a state of disability and in need of a cane in order to walk, among a laundry list of other by-product-conditions.

2025 Update - In December of 2024 Ashlee was diagnosed with Thoracic Outlet Syndrome after 5 years of suffering the symptoms. Her first rib, scalene muscles and pec minor muscle were crushing her nerves and subclavian vein at different areas of the chest. This led to chronic pain, numbness and eventually partial loss of control over her right hand. It also left her at risk of developing blood clots in her arm. Unfortunately each conservative treatment that was recommended - years of physical therapy, scalene/pec minor blocks & botox in the scalene/pec minor muscles - failed. After two ER trips and months of TOS complications, it was decided that surgery was the best course of action. Surgery to remove her first rib, scalene muscles and pec minor muscle was performed on September 3rd 2025, leaving her with five incisions across her chest, side and back. Surgery itself went well, but there have been some minor complications including subcutaneous emphysema, fluid on her right lung and a collapse of the lower lobes of that same lung, likely due to the chest tube that was in place for two days. After being admitted to the hospital for a couple of days, she is now recovering at home. Like the previous surgery, this one will also require 4-6 weeks of unpaid time off work. Last year $8,000 was raised after Ashlee’s surgery and it was an unbelievable help to her in managing the cost of keeping up with her health and time off work. Any amount of sharing or kind words are so appreciated! 

Original 2024 Update - Recently compounded with a diagnosis of Slipping Rib Syndrome — an even rarer situation destroying the sternum cartilage — Ashlee’s 9th & 10th ribs have caused the cartilage on her sternum to fracture apart. Creating yet another source of excruciating pain, and constantly dislocating from her chest wall, her cartilage continues to fracture more everyday. Ashlee’s nerves are now severely compressed and becoming more damaged. The only option for relief is Costal Margin Reconstruction Surgery, with one of the few surgeons in the country that performs this rare procedure. Because of the complexity of the surgery, the path to recovery will not be easy. Ashlee will miss at least 6+ weeks of work (unpaid), and will need physical assistance for daily life. Prep and recuperation for this surgery require attendance for several doctors appointments.

For these reasons, as well as the over medical bills she and Ryan have already accumulated over the last five years (receiving 20 medical diagnosis in tandem with her Ehlers Danlos Syndrome), we have started a necessary GoFundMe for our girl. As Ashlee & Ryan prepare to take on thousands more in medical debt, we are looking to reach a $20k marker to alleviate their financial burden. Funds will be allocated for but not limited to:

-Hospitalization

-Medical Appointments

-Medication

-Surgery Fees

-Transportation

-Household/Living Expenses

-Doctor Recommended lift recliner and bathroom seat

-6+ weeks unpaid leave from work

-Past debt accrued from bills associated with her medical journey

Unfortunately, there is no known cure for EDS itself, yet with this fundraiser we are trying to soften the physical, emotional, and financial pain it has brought to our wonderful-warrior Ashlee and her family. A tad, or a ton, we are grateful for what you are able to donate to this cause and would be thrilled if you could please share this link & fundraiser with others.

Thank you so very much.

Love, Ashlee’s Admirer’s