Help Sarissa Continue Her Education Journey

Hello, my name is Sarissa Velarde, and I am 28 years old. My life has been a constant battle against End Stage Renal Disease, a condition that has required me to undergo dialysis for the past six years. Born with a congenital kidney condition, I have faced numerous health challenges that have tested my strength and resilience. Despite these obstacles, I have always held onto my passion for astronomical and planetary sciences, dreaming of a future where I can make a difference in the world.

This past year has been incredibly difficult for me. Since August 2nd, 2024, I have been in and out of hospitals and rehabilitation centers, fighting to stay alive. I have undergone three procedures to place stents in my brain to combat pseudotumor cerebri, a condition where increased pressure inside the skull mimics the symptoms of a brain tumor without an actual tumor. Unfortunately, one of these attempts failed and caused me to be placed in the ICU for a little over three weeks. This condition has caused me unbearable headaches and vision problems. Additionally, I had a lumbar shunt placed around my spine to regulate my spinal fluid, which was also causing increased pressure in my skull. Unfortunately, I underwent a procedure called optic nerve sheath fenestration that resulted in total blindness in my left eye. I have also developed neuropathy and complications with the lumbar shunt, leaving me unable to stand or walk.

All of these medical issues have taken a toll on my mental health, resulting in my developing Bipolar II disorder, which involves periods of both depression and hypomania (a milder form of mania). Despite these challenges, staying and striving to do my best in school has been a lifesaver for me. I refuse to give up on my dreams. I continue to push through in my schooling with the aim of becoming an esteemed astronomer and advocate for individuals with disabilities in the STEM field. Currently, I reside in a nursing home as my condition has become too much for my family to bear both financially and emotionally. Being in the nursing home makes it impossible for me to work, and I no longer qualify for financial aid, making it difficult to afford my tuition.

I am reaching out for your support to help me cover the costs of tuition, school supplies, and everyday essentials. Your generosity will enable me to continue my education and achieve my dreams despite the health challenges I face. Every donation, no matter how small, will make a difference in my life and help me overcome the obstacles that stand in my way. Thank you for your kindness and support.