** Help Me Attend the HI Medical Conference in Copenhagen **

Dear friends, family, and community,

I’m reaching out with a vulnerable heart to ask for your support in attending the HI Medical Conference in Copenhagen.

The conference is May 8-10, 2025.

https://congenitalhi.org/the-2025-congenital-hyperinsulinism-family-conference-in-copenhagen-denmark/

This opportunity is incredibly meaningful to me, both personally and professionally, as it will allow me to connect with experts, doctors, and families in the rare disease community.

Over the past 3.5 years, I’ve struggled with debilitating anxiety, which has drastically impacted my life. There were days when I couldn’t leave my apartment, unable to drive, go grocery shopping, or even attend doctor’s appointments. I became dependent on others (mainly my parents and partner) for basic tasks and lost my sense of independence. Panic attacks became an uninvited part of my daily life, leaving me feeling disconnected from myself and those I love. It has been an exhausting, yet ongoing, journey toward healing.

In addition to these mental health challenges, I’m a type 1 diabetic, and the ongoing costs of insulin, medical sensors, labs, and radiology have left me with significant medical debt. Even though I pay consistently, the rising costs of living—groceries, rent, and interest rates—make it difficult to make significant progress. I’ve never been one to ask for help, but this is something that means so much to me, and I feel it’s time to reach out.

Attending this conference will allow me to bring much-needed awareness to Hyperinsulinism (HI), a rare disease that deeply impacts families around the world. To raise awareness for HI, I recently organized a candle fundraiser in honor of Rare Disease Day (February 28, 2025).

https://shiningsol.com/product/rare-disease-day/

Last week, I had the privilege of meeting with families from 16 different countries during a Zoom call. We shared stories of hope, resilience, and faith, and the experience brought me to tears. It further solidified my resolve to bring more awareness to HI and support families affected by this rare disease. This conference will give me the chance to connect, learn, and contribute toward efforts to find a cure for HI.

However, this opportunity comes with significant costs—flights, accommodation, public transport, and food—that I am unable to cover on my own right now. If you’re able to donate, it would help make this dream a reality. Your support will enable me to attend the conference and return with valuable knowledge and connections to help others facing HI.

No matter the size, your support means the world to me. Thank you for being part of this journey, for your kindness, and for helping me continue to move forward in both my personal healing and my mission to assist others affected by HI.

With gratitude and hope,

Elizabeth