I am a 36-year-old female feeling defeated. My name is Cheryl. I have been living with crohn's disease since I was 12 years old. Trust me when I say it has been a damn rollercoaster. Between countless hospital stays, medications, treatments, IV after IV, scans, and surgeries. This is just a small bit of my everday world. Since the end of December 2019, my health started to quickly change. I have had two extensive hospital stays that rendered me a different person. I was also diagnosed with Congestive Heart Failure. My crohn's has caused my stomach to look like I am carrying a child, which I am not. My stomach does not have the ability to cycle food or fluids out. Instead, I cannot keep anything down. I was blessed with 3 children, ranging in age from 13-17 years old. I and my children were unfortunate to have lost my husband and their father 3 years ago. Bills pile up, medications go without being filled. Figuring out which bill is due versus the absolute need for one particular medication or treatment, or blood draw. I have never been the type of woman who asks for help. Ask anyone who knows me. I am as stubborn as they come. Unfortunately, my hands are tied and I must ask for help for the sake of my children and myself. This is life, and this is my reality. I appreciate all of you who have taken the time to read my story and offer any help you can. 

Cheryl A.