Stand with Claire Stimson in Her Health Fight

Hello everyone. My name is Claire Stimson and I am 27 years old. There have been people wanting to set up a GFM in my name, but I have denied it (partially because if I’m going to make one, I want the story to be as accurate as possible) - in fact, I’m still not sure if I will ever actually post this one. However, putting my pride aside, I will say I need help.

As some of you know, for years my health has been up and down due to multiple conditions including, but not limited to, Crohn’s disease, Common Variable Immunodeficiency, and Type 1 Diabetes. While these have definitely given me a run for my money, nothing could have prepared me for what was to come.

Back in September I saw my cardiologist due to increasing symptoms including SOB - especially with exertion, weight gain, and minor fluid retention. At the time, he didn’t think much of it but ordered an echo anyways to see what was going on. We wanted to know my pressures, but they were unable to be calculated. Between him and my pulmonologist they decided a right heart catheterization was for the best. From this, I was diagnosed with diastolic dysfunction, heart failure and pulmonary hypertension in March. As my doctor said, I have “old people diseases in a young person’s body.”

Since March, life has gone downhill majorly. I had to leave my original full time job, I’ve been in the hospital for two admissions accounting to 15 (nearly consecutive) days between 3 hospitals, in and out of doctor’s offices, and so forth. I was transferred up to Penn Presbyterian because my case was too complicated for local and I was in stage C acute on chronic heart failure. I also was diagnosed with chronic thromboembolic disease during this final admission and am now on blood thinners for life.

I am in the process of getting approved for a CardioMEMS device which should help us eventually stay ahead of things. At this point, I am declining again though. We cannot get the perfect balance, so while I hope not, I won’t be surprised if I am admitted again soon.

Due to leaving my full-time job at the hospital, I’ve had to go on COBRA for my insurance which amounts to about $1500 a month. I’ve had medical bills (nonetheless other bills) come in daily. Just from the ER I spent $450, nonetheless the admission fee and co-insurance.

My parents are continuing the business to the best of their capabilities, but I am struggling to get invoicing done.

I am going to be honest, ends are not meeting at this point and I reach out to you for help. This is hard for me, but if anyone has any questions you’re welcome to contact me directly. I don’t want anyone to feel obligated, but I decided to cave after seeing how my family is being affected by my current situation. If anyone is local and wants to help out in a different way, you may also reach out. I know some have asked to make meal, however that is difficult due to strict dietary restrictions however I do have a few thoughts on how to help, which involves grocery purchasing. Unfortunately, the “healthy” stuff is expensive and runs up a hefty bill really quickly.

Thank you to anyone who reads this far, shares, donated, or even just sends positive thoughts. This is a very condensed version, but I think it gets the point across.