Hi, I’m Ylan, a licensed early educator, a grandmother, a gardener, and a disability advocate.

March 15 marks the fifth anniversary of COVID-19, and yet, millions of people with Long COVID are still waiting for a cure—with very little hope in sight.

I am one of those people. Long COVID has left me disabled, struggling to care for myself, and in need of mobility aids to get through daily life. But I am not alone.

After teaching through the pandemic, I developed Long COVID and ME/CFS, which have severely impacted my mobility. I struggle to stand long enough to cook, and my stairs have become nearly impossible. Most of my time is often confined to my room because I cannot safely move around my home.

I have been medically approved for a power wheelchair, but my insurance requires me to pay a $3,000 deductible before receiving any medical coverage this year.

photo above- at UVM medical center being fitted for my power wheelchair

I also desperately need home modifications (stair climber, ramps to get outside, kitchen adaptations) so that I am not trapped upstairs, unable to cook, garden, or go outside.

These mobility aids will allow me to:

Move freely in my home without exhaustion and pain.

Cook and take care of myself again.

Get outside to my garden, which I have been unable to reach

Prevent further loss of mobility and independence.

Spend time with my granddaughter again – Right now, I have to say no to visits when I am too weak to move around. With a wheelchair, I could be present for her, play with her, and enjoy our time together.

Though I have worked 2 and 3 jobs since my teenage years, I have learned how easily one falls from a fully benefited career/stability to debt and financial struggle. As my goal remains to regain my health, I am receiving medical treatment at Beth Israel's COVID Survivorship program in Boston. These expenses add up. I honestly cannot afford these costs on my disability income. I am setting a goal of $5,000 to cover the wheelchair, a stair climber, and any associated fees or modifications.

Here are the ways you can help- many are not financial. Please DO NOT donate if you are struggling yourself. I understand many are experiencing hardship. As there are millions of Americans disabled like myself, I hope you will consider:

Thank you for taking the time to read this and for any support you can offer. I sincerely appreciate it.

May 2024- NIH- Senate testimony

Long Covid Campaign

photo credit- Leigh Vogel