Hi, my name is Shayna, and I’m a 22-year-old facing the daily challenge of living with Mixed Connective Tissue Disease (MCTD), an autoimmune disease that causes my immune system to attack my own body. MCTD is an extremely rare and complex condition that involves a mix of symptoms from multiple autoimmune disorders, including lupus, scleroderma, and rheumatoid arthritis.

For me, living with MCTD means that every day is a struggle. I experience and have been diagnosed with Hypersomnia, Chronic Joint Pain and Spine Degeneration, Skin rashes, Chronic Allergies and Asthma, Heart Valve Disease, Cervical Stenosis, Gastritis and Fluctuating Bowels. It is getting more and more difficult to lead a normal life. My body feels like it's constantly fighting against itself, and despite my efforts to manage symptoms, my condition continues to worsen with a likely prognosis of major corrective spinal surgery and shortened life expectancy.

Why I Need Your Help:

After extensive research and consultation with medical experts, I am planning to move to Canada to receive the high standard of living, quality universal healthcare, strong economy, and commitment to diversity and inclusivity that I can’t get where I am now. In Canada, I would have access to a team of specialists, better treatment and recovery options, and a healthcare system that can help manage my life long condition with more financial ease. But making this move isn’t easy as it comes with significant financial challenges, including the costs of travel, moving, and securing basic living arrangements until I can get settled and start receiving medical treatment.

How You Can Help:

Your generous donation will go directly toward:

* Visa Costs: The hired legal assistance and Application and Testing Fees

* Travel costs: Flights and travel expenses to Canada. Transportation of belongings.

* Relocation and living expenses: Securing housing and covering basic living costs as I settle into a new country.

* Medical costs: Fees associated with consultations, diagnostic tests, and medications not covered by Canadian healthcare in the short term.

Moving to Canada represents my best chance at improving my health and giving me a chance to live a longer, healthier life despite MCTD. The emotional and physical toll of this disease has been overwhelming; With your support, I can start a new chapter with the medical team and care I need.

Any contribution, no matter how small, is deeply appreciated and will bring me one step closer to a future where I can live without constant pain and uncertainty. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for your kindness, support, and generosity.