This isn’t an easy thing for me to share, but it is an important part of my journey.

My name is Ray. I’m 37 year old female, and currently living in Australia, where I’ve been undergoing treatment for rheumatoid arthritis and osteoporosis. I was diagnosed with arthritis at the age of two, and while I’ve learned to live with it over the years, the past few years have been significantly more challenging. My condition has progressed, making it much more difficult to manage both physically, emotionally and mentally.

Over the past few months, I’ve been researching different treatment options that may help slow the progression of my condition, support my health, and hopefully improve my quality of life. Through this process, I have found a supportive program abroad that aligns with what I need.

I’m in the early stages of preparing for a major life transition and relocation, in the hope of creating a more supportive environment for my medical conditions. It’s important for me to prioritise my health and explore more advanced medical treatment options overseas that may better support my condition.

Over the past year, my health has declined significantly, to the point where I have spent months bedridden and unable to leave my apartment. It’s been incredibly challenging and confronting which has contributed to increased flare ups and limited mobility.

The possibility that these treatments could help slow the progression of my disease, or even bring some level of remission, has given me a sense of hope and the courage to take this step forward.

Unfortunately, the treatments and resources available to me in Australia have been limited, which has made this decision even more important for my wellbeing.

The reality, however, is that this kind of transition isn’t easy, especially when living with a chronic illness. Navigating this on my own as a single woman adds another layer of stress that can be overwhelmingly challenging, and having support during this time would truly mean the world to me.

Because of my condition, I’m limited in the type and amount of work I can take on. There will also be a period of time where I won’t yet have access to financial or medical support while I settle into this next chapter.

One of the biggest challenges I am facing is the gap period before I become eligible for government support and medical assistance. From what I understand, this can take anywhere from 6–18 months before approvals are in place. During that time, I will need to manage my health privately.

I am currently on a biologic medication that I require every two weeks to manage my condition, and without support, the cost of this treatment alone is significant. Alongside this, I will also need access to specialists, consultations, and ongoing care.

This means that for a period of time, I will be navigating both a major life transition and the financial responsibility of maintaining essential medical treatment on my own.

I am raising funds to help support this transition, including:

• Relocation and travel costs

• Shipping essential belongings and medical equipment

• Daily living costs during the transition period (rent, food, basic necessities)

• Ongoing medical treatment, including specialist consultations and follow-ups

• Cost of essential medication, including biologic treatments required every two weeks

• Access to private healthcare during the gap period before government support begins

• Most importantly, maintaining access Medical-related expenses such as blood tests, scans, and ongoing assessments

This isn’t just about starting over, it’s about giving myself a fair chance to move forward safely, without placing additional strain on my body during an already difficult time.

Asking for help is not something I find easy. I’ve always tried to manage things on my own, but I also understand that sometimes support can make all the difference.

If my story resonates with you in any way, or if you feel called to support me, I would be deeply grateful. Every contribution, no matter the size, truly helps more than I can put into words.

Even sharing this means more than you know.

Thank you

Ray Roza.