Hi, my name is Ari (you may know me as Star), and I’m raising funds to access private medical care for severe ME/CFS, a profoundly disabling neuroimmune illness that has left me housebound and often bedridden in extreme suffering.

I developed Long COVID in 2022, leaving me with POTS, MCAS and mild ME/CFS. In fall of 2024, my condition quickly progressed into severe ME/CFS, where it has stayed since.

Until recently, I was receiving some help for my POTS from a local Long COVID clinic, but that clinic has now been defunded and is shutting down, leaving me completely without care. My GP doesn’t know how to diagnose, let alone treat ME/CFS or Long COVID and is unwilling to learn. The only public clinic in my province that specializes in ME/CFS has a 3-year waitlist. I cannot wait that long—my condition is too severe, and I’m deteriorating without support.

Where the funds will go:

Your support will help cover:

* Appointments at a private clinic that treats ME/CFS and Long COVID

* Diagnostic tests not covered by provincial insurance

* Treatments and medications

* Supplements and supportive therapies

Why I’m asking for help:

This illness has stolen so much from me—my independence, my studies, my social life, and at times even the ability to do basic things like shower or make a meal. Even small physical or mental exertion can cause a debilitating crash that leaves me bed bound, in pain, unable to think clearly or care for myself. The only chance I have of improving or even gaining my life back is through proper care—and I can’t afford it on my own.

If you’re able to donate and/or share, thank you from the bottom of my heart. Your support could truly change my life.

If you're interested in helping me cover my living expenses, you can make a one time donation or subscribe for monthly donations here: https://ko-fi.com/stargirl