Help Donna Get to Mayo Clinic for Answers and Hope

Dear Friends, Family, and Kind Strangers,

I never imagined I would be in this position, but I am humbly asking for your help. I know that negative things will be said about my desperate request, but no one knows every person's individual obstacles or traumatic events. Over the past two years, my health has declined dramatically, and despite undergoing a wide range of tests and seeing numerous specialists, my doctors still do not have clear answers. I’ve now been referred to the Mayo Clinic’s Neurology Department in Rochester, Minnesota—one of the leading medical institutions in the country—in hopes of finally uncovering what’s wrong and how to treat it.

My initial appointment is scheduled for September 14–22, 2025, but Mayo has already informed me that I may need to stay for at least two weeks or longer, depending on the complexity of the testing required.

What I’m Facing

I am currently being evaluated for multiple autoimmune and neurological disorders, including Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS), Fibromyalgia, Long-term or Long-haul COVID, and other undiagnosed conditions. I can no longer stand for more than 15–20 minutes without experiencing an episode in which my heart rate spikes and I collapse, often for hours. These episodes also leave me temporarily unable to use my arms, which means I cannot even push my own wheelchair. I rely on a rollator walker and wheelchair, and must travel with an assistant who can help me with basic mobility and care.

One of the most difficult complications I face is that I cannot eat and remain active. If I eat and try to move, stand, or do anything physically demanding, I regurgitate everything I’ve eaten for that day. As a result, I often go without food until I know I’m safely home for the night and can rest. This daily challenge has taken a major toll on my strength, energy, and quality of life.

Despite undergoing nearly every cardiac, neurological, gastrointestinal, pulmonary, and electrophysiological test available, no one has yet been able to determine the root cause of these symptoms. My medical team believes that some of my conditions—including the massive pulmonary embolism (PE) I survived in 2023—may have been triggered by COVID-19 or the vaccines, and they’re hoping Mayo Clinic can finally provide the answers.

Why I Need Help

Although I am incredibly grateful to have a good job, wonderful friends, and a caring church family, this is one of those unfortunate times in life when circumstances spiral beyond what any of us can control or prepare for.

Insurance will cover my testing and appointments, but it does not cover:

* Lodging near the Mayo Clinic (on campus at the lowest possible rate)

* Travel to and from Rochester, MN

* Local transportation during my stay

* Food and basic needs while I’m away

* The cost of a support person who must travel with me to assist with mobility, transportation, and daily tasks

This trip is not something I can physically manage on my own, but I also can’t afford all the out-of-pocket costs alone. That is why I’m reaching out with humility and hope.

A Promise to Pay It Forward

If I am given the opportunity, I will pay it forward. I believe deeply in helping others, and I know what a blessing it is to be surrounded by people who care. One day, I hope to be in a position to lift someone else up the way I’m praying others will lift me now.

Why It Matters

This journey is not just about a diagnosis—it’s about preserving my life, regaining my strength, and finding the right care so I can continue to serve, teach, and support others. I’ve worked hard for everything I have, and it is extremely difficult to ask for help. But I know I can’t get to Mayo—and get through it—without help.

If you are able to give, no matter how small, please know that your support will make a real and lasting difference. And if you’re not in a position to give financially, your prayers, words of encouragement, or simply sharing this message would mean more than I can say.

From the bottom of my heart—thank you. Thank you for reading my story, for caring, and for walking beside me through this difficult time. Your support gives me strength and hope for healing.

With deep gratitude,

Donna Crouch