Hi everyone,

I never thought I’d be in a position where I’d have to ask for help, but life has thrown us some tough challenges, and we could really use some support right now.

I’ve been struggling with multiple chronic health conditions, including postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS), fibromyalgia, severe fatigue, migraines, and Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS). My symptoms make everyday activities extremely difficult—I rely on a walker, a shower chair, a lift chair and have to recline with my legs elevated and lie down most of the day. My heart rate spikes dangerously high just from sitting or standing up, and I experience frequent dizziness, falls, and near-syncope episodes. I also had a chronic Vitamin B12 deficiency which caused nerve damage in my feet and hands. I am in severe pain every day due to the compounding effects of all my conditions.

POTS is a disorder of the autonomic nervous system. Also known as a Dysautonomia which are disorders of regulation. They interfere with the body’s automatic abilities to maintain equilibrium or homeostasis. Dysautonomias disrupts the body”s ability to automatically control functions like breathing, blood pressure, heart rate, digestion, body temperature, etc. It is estimated that about 25% of people who have a dysautonomia are disabled.

Here are some of my symptoms by body system.

Neurological: Brain fog/mental clouding, Short term memory loss or difficulty finding words, Lightheadedness (presyncope), Migraine or other headaches

Cardiovascular: Palpitations/heart racing, Chest pain/pressure, Poor circulation/discoloration lios, feet, and legs, Feelings of pins and needles (paresthesia)

Gastrointestinal: Abdominal pain, Diarrhea or constipation, Feeling lightheaded after eating a large meal, Reflux (food/drink coming back up), Digesting food, Nausea and pain

Pulmonary: Shortness of breath/feeling like you can't get enough air, Labored breathing or need to concentrate on breathing

Secretomotor: Sweating too much, Body temperature regulation (too hot/too cold), Dry mouth or too much saliva, Dry eyes or too much tearing

Pupilometer: trouble with Flashing or bright lights, Depth perception (running into walls, bumping into things), Visual disturbances (seeing stars, tunnel vision), Pupil dilation or constriction

Genitourinary: Problems with urination

Other symptoms: Ear ringing/tinnitus, Depression, Feeling of burning, buzzing sensation in extremities

There is no cure for my conditions. The hope is to be able to manage symptoms and gain more function. There are no FDA approved medications for POTS so there is a lot of trial and error in finding what works for each patient. I’ve been living with severe deficits in normal functioning since I had a virus in spring of 2022 and could no longer work since October 2023, ending health insurance coverage.

I was recently diagnosed with EDS which is a connective tissue disorder which causes joint dislocations, pain and similar symptoms as POTS. These medical conditions and symptoms have made working and driving impossible for me, and has severely impacted my ability to care for myself and my family. I am in the process of applying for disability. My disability case is still in the appeal process.

Normally, my husband’s job helps keep us afloat, but he was laid off in December for the winter. While we expect him to return to work soon, we’re currently struggling to cover medical expenses and other household expenses. We also have two children living with us.

We’re hoping to raise $2400 to cover our medical expenses for the next few months until my husband is back to work full time. Every dollar will go directly toward keeping my medical care active, ensuring I can continue treatments, specialist visits, and necessary medications. I am seeing specialists at John Hopkins and Penn State Hershey and I have a wonderful local PCP. Any excess donations will go towards household expenses.

If you’re able to donate or even just share this fundraiser, it would mean the world to us. We truly appreciate any support during this difficult time.

Thank you so much for reading, sharing, and helping us get through this winter.

With much gratitude,

Valerie S-W