In April 2024, I became the first woman in my family to purchase a home. Cause for a celebration, right? You would think so, but unfortunately, I began to experience symptoms that I couldn’t explain. No matter what I did, they got more persistent and aggressive. It became difficult for me to do my usual daily things such as think, walk, drive, and talk. Still, I pushed forward the best I could. After all, I still had to maintain my new set of bills, get my youngest to school, while also preparing for my grandbaby’s arrival.

After seeing a handful of doctors and being told everything from “you’re just dehydrated” to “you’re in pristine condition,” I finally got some answers. In August 2024, I went to the ER with right-sided pain, weakness, numbness, and jerking. They admitted me, ran a bunch of scans, tests, blood work, and even did a lumbar puncture. I expected to be given medicine and to be sent on my way. Turns out it wasn’t that simple. They diagnosed me with Multiple Sclerosis.

After being discharged, I went back to work, informing them of everything that was going on. I worked for a small company of less than 50 employees, so FMLA was not an option. I used my sick time till there was no more and did the best I could at work while waiting on my insurance to approve my medicine. My insurance denied me twice before my doctor tried a different medicine that they approved. I finally had a date for my first infusion: 3/25/25. I let my job know on 3/13/25, and they let me go on 3/17/25 due to absences for doctor’s appointments and not feeling well.

So now, after finally getting some relief, I am facing more obstacles. No job, no insurance, and no government assistance. Which brings me here, humbly asking for your help and support during this difficult time. I appreciate any help that I receive. Thank you and God bless!