Supporting My Healing Journey—One Step at a Time

Hi, I’m Tarina—thank you so much for being here.

I never imagined I’d be making a GoFundMe, but after years of pain and misdiagnosis, I’m finally starting a treatment that could change my life—and I need a little help to finish what I’ve started.

I’ve been living with chronic TMJ dysfunction, facial pain, jaw tension, ear pressure, tinnitus, and full-body tightness for years. In 2019, my nose was broken, which led to three nasal surgeries—the most recent on April 10th, 2025, finally removed a hidden blood clot that had gone undetected for years. That surgery brought some relief with breathing, but the pressure, pain, and ringing in my ears still never let up.

About two years ago, a tube was placed in my ear. It caused so much pain and sensitivity to sound (hyperacusis) that I had to have it surgically removed just four months later. Ever since, the symptoms have continued—making daily life exhausting.

After trying everything—bite guards, physical therapy, chiropractic care, multiple surgeries—I finally found Dr. Jon Caulfield, a specialist in Colorado who connected all the pieces: jaw structure, airway, posture, and nervous system tension. For the first time, someone truly understood what I’ve been going through and offered a plan that gives me real hope.

On June 19th, I’ll begin treatment with a spring-loaded maxillary expansion device. Unlike a typical guard, this custom device will gently expand my upper jaw and help relieve pressure in my joints and face. I’ll also be working closely with a chiropractor to help my body realign as the treatment progresses.

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How Your Support Will Be Used:

• Remaining balance of my $7,500 treatment

• Chiropractic care to support realignment and healing

• Travel expenses to and from appointments in Colorado

You’ll see a photo I included from my last nasal surgery on April 10th—just one of many steps I’ve taken to get here. That surgery helped, but it wasn’t enough. This TMJ treatment is finally addressing the root of it all. Your support will directly help me complete this care and finally heal after years of pain.

I’ve already covered $3,000 through CareCredit, and my parents helped with the down payment so I could get started. Now, I’m asking for $4,000 to cover the rest of the journey.

If you’re able to donate—or even just share this—I’d be so grateful. After everything, I finally feel like I’m on the right path. With your help, I can move toward a life that’s not centered around pain.

Thank you for reading, and for being part of this with me.

With love,

Tarina