Hi, my name is Stacey, and I’m reaching out in a moment of genuine desperation. Asking for help has never come easily for me—I’ve always tried to be the one offering support rather than seeking it—but I truly don’t know what else to do.

On May 30th, 2025, I experienced sudden, intense chest pain. Terrified I was having a heart attack, my husband, Chris, rushed me to urgent care, where they performed an EKG and assured me my heart was fine before sending me home. Little did we know that two hours later, I'd find myself in the emergency room with the worst pain of my life.

At the hospital, blood tests and an ultrasound revealed alarming news: my liver enzymes were dangerously elevated, my liver was severely inflamed, and my white blood cell count was critically high. The doctors determined a severe infection was underway, most likely caused by my gallbladder. The solution was clear—it needs to be removed as soon as possible.

Since that day, my life has been consumed by pain. Some days are unbearable, and even on my best days, I'm barely able to eat or keep food down. Each day is a struggle, both physically and emotionally, and my strength is fading.

I recently met with a surgeon who confirmed the urgency of the situation. But the devastating part is the cost: $6,923.59 out of pocket, which is the discounted amount from the original $31,457.46. Because we have no insurance, the entire $6,923.59 must be paid up front before they'll even schedule the surgery.

We've applied for Medicaid assistance, but our family was declined due to our income being considered slightly too high—even though we are considered below poverty levels, and our two wonderful children, Alex and Chloe, qualify for Medicaid coverage. We've also applied for financial assistance through the hospital itself, but were told financial aid only becomes available after the payment is already processed, creating a heartbreaking Catch-22.

This GoFundMe is honestly my last resort. It hurts deeply to see my daughter Chloe cry with worry, unsure of what's happening to her mom. My husband, Chris, is exhausted from trying to hold everything together, and I see the quiet anxiety in Alex's eyes as he tries to stay strong for all of us. Witnessing my family’s emotional struggle is perhaps even more painful than my physical suffering.

If you've read this far, thank you from the bottom of my heart. Whether you can donate even $1 or simply share this story with others, your support brings me closer to the surgery I desperately need. It means giving me a chance to heal and reclaim the life I cherish so deeply with my family.

With heartfelt gratitude, love, and hope,

Stacey