As most of you know, I have been bedridden for a few years now in agonizing pain in both of my thighs that is on the level of complex regional pain syndrome (this is the designation that my local pain management clinic has given my pain). Complex regional pain syndrome is at the top of the McGill pain index; it is the worst pain a human can experience. So far, I have been diagnosed with May-Thurner syndrome (MTS) and Nutcracker syndrome (NCS). MTS has already been treated with a stent. NCS has not yet been treated. After a lot of testing, we have conclusively ruled out any other neurological, rheumatological, or neurosurgical causes for my symptoms (there have been multiple consults for each field, including at Cleveland Clinic). We have recently discovered that my stent is clotted for a second time, despite being on a continuous anticoagulant and an antiplatelet. Because of how my stent was placed (far into my IVC), the flow on both sides is being obstructed. I will soon be undergoing a procedure to have that cleaned out. Regarding NCS, I am currently undergoing evaluation for donor nephrectomy.

While there are many treatments for NCS, nephrectomy is the only one that offers a cure for the condition and doesn't require frequent monitoring like the stent for MTS does. The other surgical options, including stenting, left ovarian vein transposition, and left renal vein transposition, have very high failure and complication rates. The only other surgical option for this condition is an auto transplant. Unfortunately, this also has some complications. What I've seen in my group is that when these surgeries fail, people ultimately end up with a nephrectomy. I have the chance to help myself and to also save somebody else's life.

Unfortunately, because I am in the US and I am stuck with Marketplace insurance, this journey has been nothing short of financially devastating. I recently traveled to the Cleveland Clinic for a final round of testing to make sure I didn't have any outstanding neurological conditions causing my symptoms, and that included an extensive needle EMG study. I am left with ~$3,400 in medical bills that I cannot afford, which is the purpose of this fundraiser. I am financially maxed out after years of catastrophic medical bills. I already have some medical bills in collections. I've got one on a payment plan. Most of you know that I still need to move to a cheaper apartment because rent in this country is out of control. I also have an upcoming surgery for cleaning out my stent (~$325). And I have an ER bill that just happened recently ($500) that I will need to work on paying off.

I would like to get the Cleveland Clinic portion paid off, so that I can focus on my big journey and recovery ahead.

All likes, shares, donations, kind words, and prayers are greatly appreciated. This has been a really tough journey, and I thank everyone who has supported me. I wouldn't be here without you.