At the beginning of this year, I woke up after two exhausting days of work and realized I couldn’t walk. I couldn’t stand. I couldn’t function. I had pushed myself beyond my limits; my spine had given out.

After countless doctor visits, sleepless nights, and thousands of dollars spent, I finally received a diagnosis: three ruptured discs and three spinal fractures in my lower back.

The truth is, I’ve lived with back pain for most of my life. Doctors now believe these injuries likely began when I was much younger — and over time, they’ve grown worse without anyone realizing just how severe they were. Since that morning in March, my life has changed completely.

I’ve had to step away from my job as a midwifery assistant, something I loved deeply. I’ve lost my housing. Every day is a battle with chronic pain and trying to get by. Some doctors have looked at my scans and simply said, “There’s nothing we can do.” I’ve been told I may never fully recover.

But recently, there was a spark of hope.

A specialist believes that a stem cell transplant surgery could give me a real chance at healing. At walking, working, and living again without this horrible constant pain. But this treatment is not covered by insurance, and it comes at a heavy price.

I have dreams. I have so much life left to live. But I can’t do it alone.

As someone who’s always tried to be strong and self-sufficient, asking for help is incredibly difficult. But my family encouraged me to share my story. To open up and ask for support. And now, I’m asking you: please help me get the care I need to reclaim my life.

Anything you can give brings me one step closer to healing.

Thank you for reading, for caring, and for helping me hold on to hope.

With gratitude,

Tianna Monet