Help Send Christina to Mayo Clinic

Hi all! My name is Christina McElwee and I am raising money to help with travel and

lodging costs to Mayo Clinic.

It has taken a lot of courage and humility to start this GoFundMe. I often pride myself on being strong, independent, and not needing help from anyone. Vulnerability makes me uncomfortable; and in most instances, I would rather pretend to be okay than let anyone know what is truly going on. That is, until now.

On April 29, 2022, I went in for a check-up with my ophthalmologist because of some vision issues. We didn’t get too far with the appointment before he was on the phone with the hospital letting them know I was on the way. He informed me that my optic nerves were extremely swollen and I needed additional testing done. After undergoing a lot of imaging, two lumbar punctures (only one was successful) they found that I have excess spinal fluid that is pressing directly on the front of my brain. If not treated, this could result in permanent blindness. They determined that they are not sure what is causing this problem, but decided to give me medication to help reduce the amount of spinal fluid. The only downside, apart from the horrible side effects, is that this medication has a negative effect on my already damaged kidneys.

I have Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD), an inherited disorder in which clusters of cysts develop primarily within the kidneys, causing the kidneys to enlarge and lose function over time. I also have cysts on my liver and other internal organs. I have been blessed to remain in Stage 1 for many years, but since taking this new medication, my kidney function has decreased by 40%, placing me in Stage 3. There is no cure for PKD, as your kidney function declines the only options are transplant or dialysis.

The care that I have received has been poor at best. My team of over 10 doctors do not communicate with each other, have not addressed my concerns, and continue to insist I take medication that could ultimately end in kidney failure.

I need help!

I can’t remember that last day that I actually felt good. It’s probably been years. Every day is a constant battle with pain, uncertainty, infections, medication, more medications, blood draws, and hospital visits. And while I try to remain positive and put on a brave face, my quality of life is poor.

I’ve recently been able to reach out to the Mayo Clinic for help. The Mayo Clinic is one of the top hospitals in the world. They are known for their integrative health care, education, and research. They have agreed to take me on as a patient. From July 27 to August 9, I will be traveling to Rochester, Minnesota. I will have 19 different appointments while I’m there so they can get a comprehensive view of what is wrong. Their team will then work collaboratively to determine the problem and create a health plan.

As you can imagine, this trip, while much needed, is also going to cost a lot of money. They’ve informed me that there is a possibility of more testing while I’m there, which results in the possibility of needing to stay in Minnesota for several weeks. Mayo Clinic does not pay for travel or room and board. I am asking for help with the travel costs of this trip - airfare, and lodging. I simply can’t do this by myself and I’m very afraid of what will happen if I don’t get the care that I need.

Please help!