My sister needs your help

My sister, Alyssum, needs some help right now from the community of people who love her. She suffers from a multitude of chronic illnesses and disabilities, including (but not limited to) Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS), Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME/CFS), Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS), Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS), migraines, and endometriosis. She is often in excruciating pain, experiences brain fog so intense she can’t read, has debilitating exhaustion, and is often bedridden for days. She has been unable to work for 2 years and is in the process of applying for disability.

She has been on a 2-year long journey of trying to find medical support and solutions for her conditions. Her diagnoses are so complex, interwoven, and under-researched, that her doctors are often unable to offer answers or solutions. She had recently found two research clinics that may be able to help. The Metrodora Institute is a new research/clinic in Salt Lake City geared specifically for people like her. It is a national medical and research center focused on advancing care and accelerating potential cures for neuroimmune axis disorders. They provide integrated multidisciplinary care for individuals living with debilitating chronic conditions. This opportunity could help her find some relief and answers to her complex situation. She also found Four Peaks Healthcare , a place in Flagstaff, Arizona, that takes a holistic approach and looks at the interplay of each diagnosis so that patients are supported with all of their symptoms.

We are fundraising for her because neither place accepts her insurance and it will cost money for the initial consultations, travel, and treatments.

She currently has an appointment at The Metrodora Institute on September 18th. We need $3360 for the consultation, testing, and travel. If she is accepted for treatments/trials, we will update the GoFundMe as necessary. We are also raising money so she can get a consultation at Four Peaks Healthcare .

Metrodora Institute

$1160 - initial consult

$1500 - estimated testing costs

$700 - travel

Four Peaks Healthcare

$1500 - initial consult

$750 - second consult

$300 or $100 every 2-6 months depending on what her needs are

Total needed - $5,910

Anything you’re able to give is greatly appreciated.

Thank you for your support and care,

Chelsea

Photo credit: Thatcher Hayward