Help Cathy Get the Treatment She Needs

Cathy has been battling endometriosis, a chronic condition, for nearly 15 years. Endometriosis can cause severe pain and infertility, both of which Cathy has been enduring. After undergoing fertility treatments in 2015, Cathy and her husband Josh were blessed with two daughters in 2016 and 2018. The pregnancies temporarily helped her symptoms go into remission, but in February 2023, Cathy’s pain returned stronger than ever.

Since then, Cathy has struggled with debilitating symptoms, including severe pain, dizziness, migraines, and episodes of nearly passing out. From February 2023 to July 2024, Cathy underwent three surgeries: endometriosis ablation, a hysterectomy, and an oophorectomy (ovary removal), along with numerous medications, but nothing has provided lasting relief. During her most recent surgery, doctors found endometriosis on her ureters, rectum, colon, and pelvic wall, with her colon even adhesed to her pelvic wall. This pain has made it impossible for Cathy to work, and she has been unable to complete a full school year since the 2021-2022 school year. Cathy teaches three-year-olds at a private Christian school, and she has been on short-term disability since February 24th.

The only treatment that offers lasting relief is excision surgery performed by an endometriosis specialist. Unfortunately, excision surgeries are costly and often not covered by insurance because it is out-of-network for their provider. Excision surgery is the "gold standard" for treating endometriosis, removing the root tissue (not just the surface layer), offering the best chance for long-term relief. The surgery itself costs $14,000, and the facility and anesthesiologist fees are expected to total around $30,000. These costs need to be paid out of pocket.

Cathy and Josh have made the difficult decision to move forward with the surgery, which will take place on Wednesday, March 12th, in Charlotte, North Carolina. Cathy is hopeful to return to work by the end of March, but in the meantime, Josh has taken on a second part-time job to help with bills and medical expenses. Their daughters are also doing their part by running an online bake sale to raise funds for the surgery.

This GoFundMe is being organized by Covenant Community Church, Josh and Cathy’s home church, in support of their family during this challenging time. Any funds raised will go directly toward covering the surgeon's fees, hospital costs, anesthesiologist fees, and travel expenses for the surgery.

We are deeply grateful for your generosity and prayers. Please consider donating to help Cathy get the care she needs to live pain-free, so she can continue to be the loving wife, mother, and teacher that she is.