I'm Crista and this is my husband Tanner. I am preparing for a neurosurgery scheduled for next month, July 2025. I have been suffering for over 10 years with several chronic medical conditions including POTS (Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome), hEDS (Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome), MCAS (Mast Cell Activation Syndrome), and multiple vascular compression syndromes. I have had 6 major surgeries and countless procedures to aid in symptoms and diagnoses.

I have been declining significantly since March of this year. Since then, my doctors have pinpointed three problems likely causing my symptoms: Chiari I Malformation, Craniocervical Instability, and low CSF pressure issues. The combination of these problems puts pressure on my brain and spine, causing painful and often debilitating symptoms like headaches, dizziness, balance issues, and nerve problems. My everyday symptoms include severe headaches, neck and back pain, lightheadedness, fatigue, body aches, joint pain, and constant nausea.

I am getting a surgery to address my Chiari Malformation in July. Due to the complexity of my health conditions, I have to travel to New York to get the surgery done by a surgeon who specializes in my conditions. Unfortunately, this neurosurgeon is an out-of-network provider, which puts much more financial responsibility on us. This is in addition to the costs of travel, hotel stays, food, and any additional costs.

Along with my health declining, Tanner has also been dealing with severe mental health issues. After experiencing suicidal ideation in March, Tanner started attending an OCD and Anxiety Clinic. Due to this, he has been out of work since March. I, too, have been out of work due to the debilitating symptoms. This has put us in a difficult situation to afford some everyday expenses, let alone the extensive medical expenses coming up.

We deeply appreciate any support you can offer to help us cover medical expenses, travel costs, and any additional financial needs during this challenging time. Thank you!

You can donate via GoFundMe or Venmo us to avoid transaction fees @crista_thomas.