Hey reader!

My name is Ashley August and I started this campaign in hopes of help in this extremely difficult moment. I was diagnosed with Keratoconus, a progressive eye disease that causes vision loss. My vision has been slowly deteriorating—slowly due to the support of specialists and doctors, but not insurance. Since this disease is fairly new in its development, procedures to prevent its progression do not fall under insurance guidelines. There isn’t a cure outside of a corneal transplant. In order to stop its progression I would have to pay out of pocket for Crosslinking procedures and specialist visits—both of which I cannot currently afford on my own.

As an actor/teaching artist who juggles multiple jobs to support her career advancement and general living expenses—things have been tight financially. Due to my visual impairment, I cannot drive. Rideshare apps have been my best friend for getting to and from work and appointments but ended up creating a whole new need to tighten up my wallet. I’ve spent the last 3 months searching for ways to support my health financially, now I am turning to community to help me through.

(I won't even get into the fact that I won't be able to see/work while in recovery.)

More about Keratoconus:

https://keratoconusmd.com/kxl/

Timeline:

I've found a specialist and surgeon team I feel comfortable with and will begin visits with them toward the end of October. I am prepping for a December procedure date.

Here is the breakdown:

Procedure Cost: $12,000 Minimum

Scleral Lenses for Vision Post Opp: $2,000 per eye/ $4,000 total

Specialist and Surgeon Appointments: $2,300

Transportation to and from appointments, GoFundMe Fee and Misc. living Expenses: $1,700

I would be so grateful if you donated and/or shared to help me continue pursuing my dreams and seeing the world.

Wishing you all the best,

Ashley August

theashleyaugust.com