Hi, my name is Liz, and asking for help like this is not easy for me.

I grew up in a low income household where stability was never guaranteed. From a young age, I learned how to survive, adapt, and keep going even when things were hard. I am a first generation college student, and education became my anchor. It gave me structure, hope, and a sense of purpose when so much else felt uncertain. I am currently a university student majoring in secondary education, grades 6–12 social studies, with a focus in political science. My goal is to become a social studies teacher and teach government, history, and civic engagement. I want to support students who come from difficult backgrounds and help them feel seen, capable, and empowered through education. I work multiple jobs to support myself while staying enrolled in school, and I have always tried to handle challenges on my own.

Over the past few years, my health has taken a serious and frightening turn. I experience recurrent fainting episodes caused by a heart rhythm disorder. During these episodes, my heart quite literally stops for 36 seconds. When I faint, I do not simply pass out. I convulse, and sometimes I vomit. These episodes are unpredictable and terrifying, and they have made it difficult to work consistently, attend class, and live a normal life. By the time I reach the hospital, my vitals often appear normal, which has made diagnosis, documentation, and insurance approval extremely difficult.

Because of my syncope episodes, I am not legally able to drive. This has taken another toll on my life, as I am unable to drive home to visit family during an already difficult and isolating time. Losing that independence has been emotionally painful and has added to the strain I am already carrying. My electrophysiologist has recommended a heart ablation, which is a minimally invasive procedure that could significantly reduce or stop these episodes and help me regain stability and safety. Unfortunately, my health insurance (Meridian Medicaid) has repeatedly denied coverage for this procedure.

I recently received information on a cash payment option for the ablation, and the cost is $50,000 out of pocket. This number is overwhelming and far beyond what I can manage on my own, especially while continuing to work, stay enrolled in school, and fight ongoing insurance appeals. I am now facing the reality of needing to fund this procedure myself while still advocating for coverage and exploring every possible assistance option. I am exhausted physically, emotionally, and financially.

Between managing my symptoms, working as much as I can, staying enrolled in school, and navigating insurance denials, I am stretched thin. This procedure is not elective or optional. It is about being able to live without the constant fear of collapsing, getting injured, or losing my ability to finish my degree and build the future I have worked so hard toward. I never wanted to be in a position where I had to ask for help. But right now, I cannot do this alone.

Any support, whether through donating, sharing this fundraiser, or offering encouragement, would mean more than I can put into words. Donations will go directly toward covering the cost of my heart ablation and related medical expenses so I can focus on healing, staying in school, and continuing toward my goal of becoming an educator.

Thank you for taking the time to read my story. Thank you for believing in me during a moment when things feel incredibly heavy.

With gratitude,

Liz ❤️