Medical Care for Miss Wondersmith

Hi, I'm Betsy, but most of you know me as Miss Wondersmith. I've struggled with severe chronic health issues since I was a teenager, but 3 years ago they took a big turn for the worse when I completely lost the ability to eat and became reliant on life support.

Since then, my doctor and I have been doing everything we can to find a specialist to help me. There has been endless searching for someone knowledgeable about my rare genetic disorder, battles with insurance, and so very many frustrating phone calls. FINALLY we've made some progress! In 2024 I have two appointments with out-of-state specialists! These visits could lead to great improvements in my quality of life, and could even be lifesaving. (If you've been following me for a while, you'll know that I've had 4 life-threatening medical emergencies related to the line in my chest, which is how I currently get my nutrition.)

The truth of the matter is that relying on liquid nutrition pumped into a vein in my neck just isn't sustainable. It comes with very high risks and puts huge amounts of pressure on other organs. I'm looking at a much shorter lifespan than I would have if we could directly address the functional issues causing my gastroparesis. Plus I'd be able to taste chocolate again! (Can you imagine going 4 years without the teensy tiniest taste of chocolate?!)

Both of these appointments are out of state and will require travel, which will also mean having to procure necessary accommodations to make sure I am safe along the way. We don't really know what to expect following the appointments either; it's very likely that I will need to make multiple out-of-state trips for further testing and treatment.

I'm raising funds to help get me to these appointments, with the hope that I'll be able to raise enough to also cover those follow-up appointments and (hopefully) treatment! My medical costs are currently over $2000/month*, so any help with those would be incredibly appreciated as well.

*unfortunately in the State of Idaho, disability payments PLUS the income limits would barely cover my necessary medical expenses and none of my cost of living, so my only option is to work to earn enough that I can afford my healthcare, even though I am severely disabled.

If you've ever benefitted from my existence, now would be a great time to show that appreciation. It's not easy to ask for help, but knowing I have such a wonderful and understanding community makes it a lot easier.

Thank you for being here.