In March of 2022, I started experiencing pain in my abdomen that felt like acid fire. I kept pushing forward, but the pain was always there in the background, slowing me down.

After two years and more tests than I can count, I was finally diagnosed with Slipping Rib Syndrome (SRS)—a rare and excruciating condition where unstable rib cartilage shifts and irritates the surrounding nerves and muscles. There is very little expertise in this area, and many doctors have never even heard of it.

On January 27, 2025, I underwent surgery to stabilize my ribs. Instead of improving my quality of life, the pain became debilitating. I now live with daily 8/10 pain, even while on strong medication. What used to be routine now feels out of reach. Nearly all of my energy goes toward keeping up with work, which leaves little room for hobbies, social life, or the things that make life feel full.

In the months since, I’ve also learned that I am hypermobile, have significant scoliosis, and have developed costovertebral group dysfunction—meaning the joints where my ribs connect to my spine are unstable too. My ribs don’t just slip out of place; they often remain out of place for long stretches of time, leaving me with 3–5 ribs displaced at my spine at once. This makes even basic movements, including breathing, difficult.

At my last check-in, my surgeon told me that my case had become too complex for him to treat further. He explained that while he could attempt an experimental procedure, there would be no guarantee of relief. Instead, he recommended I see Dr. Hansen in West Virginia—the nation’s leading SRS specialist, who is known for helping patients with complex cases like mine.

That’s where my journey is taking me next.

I am currently fighting with insurance to cover the cost of the cost of the procedure. It appears likely that the surgery itself will be covered. But the reality is that travel, lodging, and the weeks of support I’ll need to get through this are not. These are the expenses standing in the way of my chance at lasting relief.

Every contribution will go directly toward:

• Travel to West Virginia for surgery

• Lodging and transportation during recovery

• Basic support while I’m unable to work

This surgery represents hope: the chance to return to daily life without constant pain, to regain independence, and to rebuild my strength after years of struggling.

If you’re able, please consider donating or sharing this campaign. Your support—financial, emotional, or simply by spreading the word—means more than I can say.

With gratitude and hope,

Aspen