My name is Ted, and I am asking for help after a lifetime of serious health struggles. I have dealt with illness since childhood, and as an adult I developed sepsis and endocarditis. These infections nearly took my life more than once. They also left me with severe complications, including the loss of my nose, the sight in my right eye, and almost my ears. I was blessed to have eye surgery a little over a year ago, and being able to see out of both eyes again was unbelievably emotional. But even after everything I have survived, I am still facing another painful challenge: my nose reconstruction is considered cosmetic, so insurance will not cover it.

I have gone to doctors multiple times to understand my options, and the cost of reconstructive surgery is estimated to be between $8,000 and $15,000 just for the surgeon, operating room, anesthesia, and care materials. That does not include recovery expenses or lost income while I heal. This surgery is so important for my emotional well-being. I am exhausted from being stared at, called names, and feeling afraid to be out in public. It has taken a deep toll on me, and I am reaching a point where I just cannot carry this alone anymore. I have never been someone who asks for help, so this is not easy for me, but I am hoping to have this surgery before winter so I can spend that season recovering. Any support, whether through a donation or by sharing my fundraiser, would mean the world to me and help me take this next step toward healing.

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