Support Michelle’s Battle With Brain Disease

Hello and thank you for coming to my gofundme page!  In what has been a very difficult time, I'm leaning into community and goodwill and admitting I need help.

In April 2019, I woke up with pain along my neck and back.  “Oh great,” I thought, “I’m getting sore-from-sleeping old,” but the symptoms got worse and quickly I found myself dealing with more symptoms than I could keep up with.  I was losing sensation in my limbs, having non-stop pain throughout my body, and even encountering problems with my vision.  Doctors kept insisting it must be stress, as test after test came back negative.  I knew that wasn't right. After months of hospitals, doctors, tests, and relentlessly advocating for myself, I began to get answers. 

I was diagnosed with a rare and progressive cerebrovascular condition that was on the verge of taking my life.  Though that wasn't the kind of answer I was prepared for, I came to terms with the fact I required immediate brain surgery and set out to take on the biggest challenge I have ever faced.   

The road to recovery has been extremely difficult.  My life has been upended from what it was before.  

The tests, hospital stays, and the surgery itself were all incredibly expensive.   
This is a chronic condition, that I battle with daily, so prioritizing my wellness and recovery without having to worry about the huge financial burdens is my main reason for utilizing the gofundme.   
I do as much as I can to stay on top of my bills, but unfortunately I'm up against a large sum that still falls to me.  Within one year alone, overhalf a million dollars of bills fell into my lap - the price I was told for staying alive. 

Money received will go directly towards my bills and recovery - and yes, every little bit helps! 

If you know me, you know I've worked my whole life to be financially responsible.  When my health issues began, my way of life changed completely. Having to start a gofundme on top of my diagnosis and everything else has been very hard.  Advocating for myself, my life, and my health is a daily and expensive adventure lately. 

I'm so grateful that I've found so many kind people along my journey, and I hope through continued support I will make it out on the other side.   Please, consider donating and sharing my gofundme. 

Thank you to everyone who has been there for me so far!