My name is Sonya, and I am currently facing a difficult time due to idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH). This condition causes my body to produce too much spinal fluid, which leads to swelling around my brain and has severely affected my vision. Because of this, I have been forced to take unpaid medical leave from my job as a patient care technician in a cardiac unit, where I cared for patients after open heart surgery. I was also working toward my BSN as a full-time student, but my health has made it impossible to continue both work and school for now.

The impact on my family has been overwhelming. I am a mother to two wonderful daughters, ages 8 and 2, who mean everything to me. Since my symptoms began, I have spent much of my time in and out of the hospital, which has made it hard to be present for them. My oldest daughter loves playing violin in her mariachi group, but I am struggling to afford the costs to keep her involved. For my youngest, I am at risk of losing her child care because I cannot pay for it, and even basic needs like diapers and hygiene products have become difficult to manage.

Brain surgery to place a stent that will help drain the excess fluid from my brain to my stomach has been in the talk with my doctors. This will be a major step in my treatment, and I am hopeful it will help me recover and return to caring for my family. The funds raised will go directly toward paying our rent and bills, covering child care expenses, and making sure we have the essentials we need. If possible, I hope to keep my daughter in mariachi so she can continue doing what she loves. Any support will help us get through this challenging time and allow me to focus on my health and my family.