Naomi’s health

During my elementary school days through twelfth grade, I was actively involved in sports. My primary sports interest was track and field as well as cross country. I competed in track and field for 10 years, cross country for 7 years, and also made the Junior Olympics.

I have won the state championship in cross country and have been a state representative in both track and field and cross country, winning multiple times. I have received an excessive quantity of competition ribbons, medals, plaques, and trophies throughout the years.

In addition to my high school academic requirements, I was also enrolled in the Junior Reserve Officers' Training Corps (JROTC) and health care dual enrollment.

After reoccurring health issues, in 2020 at 16 ½ years of age, I was diagnosed with Crohn's disease, a chronic inflammatory bowel disease that affects the lining of the digestive tract. The diagnoses was devastating and life changing!

Understanding and managing the life-altering symptoms, hospitalizations, outpatient medical attention, acquiring medications, and the overall financial responsibilities associated with having Crohn's, it is frequently overwhelming.

It has been 4 years since the Crohn's diagnoses. The impact that Crohn's has on my life is still a life-altering journey for both me and my family. I am the second born, oldest daughter and have 4 other siblings. I am the only one in my immediate and extended family who has this disease. It is very difficult going through the effects of Crohn's and experiencing this illness alone.

Having a chronic health issue means the funds to cover the costs for medical attention, tests, procedures, and medications can be an issue, even though being modestly covered by health insurance.

Currently, I am going through yet another Crohn's flare-up. I have had back-to-back doctor appointments over the last two months. Due to the patient co-pays and after insurance medical bills that I have received, the majority of my pay checks have/are going towards covering these expenses.

I have several upcoming appointments in October and November which I do not have the funds to cover the costs that I will be billed for them. The following are the definite and possible appointments that I currently know about:

10/11 - Chest X-ray - Cost not yet known

10/?? - New medication, STELARA® infusion - Cost not yet known

11/27 - Colonoscopy - Cost average $2,000

11/?? - STELARA® infusion (if effective) - Cost not yet known

So, to all my family and friends, I humbly ask for your prayers that every need would be supplied and if you are able, please give to my medical expenses Go Fund Me. I would be grateful for anything that is given. I just really need help to cover some of the costs for my health care.