Hi!

I'm Victoria- a lot of you may know me as a local Seattle poet, maybe a friend, or hopefully someone in your community!

I was unfortunately diagnosed with Stage 4 Endometriosis this January. To treat my severe Endometriosis, I will be having to undergo intensive surgery at the end of this month, on July 31st, with likely 3 overnight stays. So I am raising any funds possible for this medical treatment!

Read on for more a more detailed break-down below!

What is Endometriosis?

Endometriosis is a very painful illness that affects the lower organs, primarily the lower reproductive organs. Tissue of the uterus starts to grow outside of the uterus, and can cause bursting cysts, lesions, and damage to the lower organs.

Why are you getting surgery?

I've had Endometriosis since I was 18, and had one surgery in 2022. That first surgery however my surgeon was not able to get all tissue out because it spread to some of my lower organs. So now it is extremely severe, being diagnosed as Stage 4 Endometriosis. This time this surgery is going to have 2 specialist surgeons, with a 6 hour total operation time and likely 3 overnight stays. They will likely be removing an ovary and fallopian tube, as well removing pieces of my lower GI organs that the Endometriosis has become embedded in. My medical team is hopeful that this could lead to a more successful outcome, and therefore hopefully no more surgeries or at least none for a very long time. A daunting surgery like this scares me a little, but I also am also hopeful this could improve my physical health in so many ways beyond just my endometriosis- possibly improving my sports injury, lower organ issues, and more. So that's why I'm taking the plunge, and therefore raising funds for this surgery.

What's the cost?

I just got insurance recently so my out-of-pocket maximum is $7,000. And then I have a $1,000 deductible. So the total cost of the procedure will be $8,000.

I can't donate, is there anything else I can do?

Share! It's cliche, but it's true. Sharing my GoFundMe, in any way, I would be so grateful for!

I know times are rough for everyone in almost every shape and form.

I also love and greatly cherish other forms of support- meal support, help while I'm recovering, or even just sending good thoughts. A lot of you know about the loss of my parents last summer. I know I talk and write about them a lot. Just the emotional impact of not having any parental support during this process is a very heavy weight. I try my best, but I am still scared doing this all on my own at 26 years old. I'm not in critical condition, and I still have a roof over my head. But human connection gives me so much joy, so any kind gesture is appreciated. And free!

Thank you so much for reading all this. So much gratitude for you all.