My name is Crystal Gardner, and not long ago I was a Corporate Compliance Director with 20 years of experience, a career I was proud of, and a life I had worked hard to build for my family.

In November 2023, everything changed. What started as a sudden, excruciating headache quickly unraveled into a diagnosis of Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA/mini-stroke), Complex Migraine Syndrome, and the worsening of a lifelong Fibromyalgia condition — all compounded by Long COVID. Within weeks, I went from leading compliance programs across 26 senior living communities to being unable to finish a sentence.

I have fought every step of the way. I completed months of extensive physical and speech therapy. I attempted to return to work in 2025 — only to have my body remind me, painfully, that I am not the same person I was before. I have since been hospitalized with stroke-like symptoms along with frequent trips to the ER for migraine attacks. I have been unable to sleep without pain, and unable to get through a day without battling migraines, cognitive challenges, nausea, chronic pain and neuro-fatigue. I am challenged with what is known as micro-strokes. Micro-strokes can happen as often as daily and even multiple times a day. Returning to traditional work is unmanageable at this time.

Through all of this, I am also the primary caregiver for two children with serious medical conditions of their own.

I am humbly asking for $50 to help cover basic living expenses while I navigate these challenges. Any amount helps, and every share matters.

Thank you for seeing me.