The Right to Breathe

Breathing with ease is something most people take for granted, usually no thought and little effort required. You probably don't know this about me, but my RIGHT TO BREATHE is compromised. The medical term for my condition is deviated septum.  That means that the part of my nose that separates the nostrils is crooked. What causes that and why does it matter? Partially, I was born with it (genes from my mother's side), and that direct hit to my face with a baseball at the age of eight didn't help. The blockage that this condition causes in my air passage has worsened as I have gotten older, and the frustrations for my health and well being have sent me in search of help and relief. 

Since my problem isn't exactly "visible" to most people, let me describe it for you.  To sleep, I have to lay on my left side and stretch my nose open with my pillow. Getting comfortable enough to fall asleep usually takes some time, but when I'm sick it is nearly impossible. I often lie awake at night and imagine sticking a drill up my nose or try to concoct some weird home remedy just to breathe properly.  Other treatments or medicines don't work. Other positions don't work. My sleep is always jagged. During the day you might notice me often stretching my face, pressing the back of my hand againts my nose, or making a weird face just to get a full breathe of air.  I also have an almost constant nasal drip.  Sniffing and tissues are my life. 

As I said earlier, this has been a longtime issue, but lately, it has worsened. I decided to do some research to see if there was hope for relief. I have found  encouraging help from my surgeon, Dr. Michael Kim. He has worked diligently with me to set up my surgery.  I am scheduled for deviated septum surgery (septoplasty) January 29th. Also, thanks to his unrelenting office staff, insurance is paying for most of the operation. Instead of costing $20,000+, it should only cost me about $4000. Please know that this is NOT plastic surgery for cosmetic reasons, but surgery on the inside of my nose to improve my health, giving me the RIGHT TO BREATHE more easily. 

I know my case isn't life threatening, but for me it is life changing. I am looking forward to breathing with ease. I have some money saved up, but not enough. In addition to medical costs, I will be unable to work, losing wages, for at least a week, maybe two. If everyone in my network of friends and family donated the amount that it would cost to buy me a cocktail at a bar, or a burrito at a food truck, then my appreciation would be immeasurable! Thank you for considering. I hope to return the favor for you when you need help.