In early February, I woke up experiencing sudden, severe pain and swelling in my breasts that seemed to come out of nowhere. After 25 years without any problems, my life suddenly turned upside down. I wound up in the emergency room and since then have been undergoing multiple tests - including ultrasounds and MRIs. I have consulted with multiple top surgeons, and recently learned that one of my breast implants has ruptured and the silicone has migrated into my lymph nodes.

Even more shocking, the implants I received years ago as part of a medical study are Allergan 410 “cohesive gummy bear” implants, which were recalled in 2019 due to their connection to a rare but serious and potentially life-threatening cancer called Breast Implant-Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA-ALCL). This cancer is linked to the textured outer shell of these implants and I am experiencing all of the associated symptoms.

What is especially distressing is that I was never notified of this recall, either by the manufacturer or the doctor who originally performed my surgery.

Because of the rupture, compounded with the risks associated with these recalled implants and my current symptoms, what should have been a straightforward removal procedure back then has now become a much more complicated and extensive surgery. I urgently need specialized surgical care to remove the implants safely and address the health complications I am now experiencing.

This situation has completely overwhelmed me emotionally and financially. I am currently facing serious medical concerns while also dealing with the financial burden of emergency surgery and ongoing medical care.

As someone who has spent my life mostly supporting others, this isn't an easy place for me to be in - but here I am.

For friends and colleagues who have expressed a desire to help during this incredibly difficult time, your support would mean more than I can put into words. Thank you for helping me access the urgent medical care I need.