My name is Raymond, and I’m reaching out for help after a long and painful medical journey that began in October 2022. What started as a routine surgery to fix a Haglund’s spur—a small bone growth affecting my Achilles tendon—has turned into nearly three years of chronic pain, multiple surgeries, and mounting medical bills that have taken a toll on my body, mind, and finances.

Before all of this, I was a passionate long-distance runner and racer—running was my outlet, my therapy, and a big part of who I am. My surgeon at the time assured me that surgery would allow me to return to running, but instead, I’ve endured five surgeries, countless appointments, failed treatments, and relentless pain that has upended my life.

After years of uncertainty and misdiagnosis, my current surgeon finally discovered that the original “reabsorbable” pins from my first surgery never dissolved and were causing the ongoing pain. In July 2025, I underwent my fifth surgery to remove the remaining pins and repair the damage. While this procedure has given me hope for true healing, I now face over $31,800 in out-of-pocket expenses and continued recovery costs—including physical therapy, follow-up visits, and mental health support as I work to rebuild my life.

I’ve fought tirelessly to advocate for myself and find answers, but I can’t do it alone anymore. Any contribution—no matter how small—will go directly toward medical bills, recovery expenses, and helping me regain the quality of life I lost.

Thank you for reading my story, for your kindness, and for helping me find hope again.