Layla Tanner's Medical Mystery

Over the past two months I have been showing symptoms that have hardened each and every day. My left arm and leg have been alternating between numb and tingling. At first it wasn't bothersome until I was unable to use these limbs effectively. Following what seemed to be an inconvenient symptom, I began to notice my headaches wouldn't go away, my vision would go in and out of focus as well as weakening my peripheral vision,  nausea, ringing and decreased hearing, and my left side began to shake and become painful to the point of sleepless nights. I finally decided to go the doctor when one night at work, my vision went dark and blurry, I began to hyperventilate and my whole left side went numb. My coworkers noticed and my boss called the paramedics. Upon evaluation they explained that, initially, the symptoms sounded like a stroke and once that was ruled out I was left with more questions than answers. 

I went into the doctor and he explained that my symptoms were not easily diagnosed and he couldn't get any answers without some testing, a brain MRI specifically. At first all I could think about was cost. I asked advice for ways to decrease the cost and if it was avoidable; he explained it would be the best option, but if cost is a factor to revisit in a week to monitor my symptoms. After the week passed I had gotten used to several of my symptoms, but I gained more and more each day: my headaches followed down my spine making my whole body ache, I lost the ability to stay asleep, I gained constant nausea, and lost my sense of balance. When I went back I spoke with my doctor once again, he performed more tests and found that I had completely lost sensation in my left arm and leg. Even after explaining my family's medical history all was ruled out, and at that point I knew: I need to get an MRI. 

After researching what I knew would be a costly procedure, I found that my insurance won't cover anything until I meet a $1,500 deductible. This alone has caused a lifetime of stress. As someone who lives paycheck to paycheck I knew there was no way I would be able to pay for this. Luckily, before all of this happened I picked up another job, which is now all going to my medical expenses, but it still isn't going to be enough. I am not the type of person who likes to borrow money, I am very prideful in taking care of myself- but this is something I cannot do alone.

I will be scheduling my MRI by the end of this week and will hopefully have the test done before the end of October, as scheduling allows. While ideally, paying upfront for the procedure would be wonderful and take away a lot of stress, I know what I am asking for-  I can pay the medical bills as they come. I'm not asking for this goal to be met quickly, I just need support through this aggravating process. 

If money is also tight for you, I understand. Providing me a way to promote my cause would be incredible, and if you could share with your friends and family I might just make my goal. Words cannot express how grateful I would be for your donation. Thank you for all of your support and taking the time to read my story.