- J
Living with multiple chronic illnesses means managing more than symptoms—it means navigating life-long medical care, isolation, uncertainty, and costs.
Many of you know that I live with multiple chronic health conditions.* Over the past six months, I’ve been working closely with a dedicated physician, Dr. Zac Spiritos.** He has helped uncover many of the root causes of my long-standing issues while creating an evolving plan for life-long care.
For the first time the treatments we’ve identified are truly helping. I’m feeling progress and hope.
Managing chronic illnesses, comes with ongoing expenses. Many of the medications and treatments I rely on are not covered by insurance, and the costs of maintaining my health have become increasingly difficult to manage alongside my everyday living expenses.
Financial Details:
Annual medical expense, not covered by insurance: $22,188
If you would like an understanding of costs, please contact me personally.
GoFundMe:
Setting up this GoFundMe page was not an easy decision, but I’m doing so in hopes of easing some of the financial strain that comes with life-long medical care.
Asking for help does not come easily. And, continuing care is not optional for me, it is necessary.
Every contribution:
No matter the size—goes directly toward supporting medical care, medications, and physical therapy. If you’re unable to donate, sharing this page is also an incredibly meaningful way to help.
There are many living amongst us who quietly live with chronic health conditions. The impact and isolation can be devastating. Many conditions are not evident just by looking at a fellow human, creating a feeling of isolation for the individual. If there is someone in your life dealing with a chronic medical condition perhaps consider ways to help them. I am advocating for myself and for them.
I am deeply grateful for your kindness, generosity, and support. Thank you for taking the time to read my story and for being part of my community during this journey.
My 2026 annual medical expenses, not covered by insurance is $22,188
Love and gratitude, Sydney
* Sydney’s Health Conditions:
Mast Cell Activation Syndrome, Eosinophilic Esophagitis, Dysautonomia, Idiopathic Platelet Disorder, and Connective Tissue Disorder
** Dr. Zac Spiritos, MD, MPH:
Dr. Spiritos is a well-known nerogastroenterology physician treating a wide range of gastrointestinal and liver disorders, with specialty interests in irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), functional abdominal pain, motility disorders, and dysautonomia. This includes postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS) and mast cell activation syndrome (MCAS). He is also well-versed in gastrointestinal complications associated with hypermobility syndromes, including Ehlers-Danlos (EDS). Passionate about patient education and a holistic approach to GI health, he integrates nutrition, lifestyle modifications, and gut-brain therapies into his practice.
Any additional funds raised will be donated to help others with similar diagnosis get care that they need.