UPDATE:
I’m completely overwhelmed by the love and support you all have shown me. We hit $500 in just 24 hours, and I’m blown away by your generosity. I have hope now that I’ll be able to surpass my base goal and finally get the care I need... for me and for my kids.
I’ve always tried to handle life on my own, but my health has reached a point where I have to step outside my comfort zone and ask for help. In June, I lost my job due to budget cuts, and my declining health has made it impossible to secure a new one. Combined with out-of-state medical costs, this has left me in a position I never imagined: needing to ask for help publicly.
I’ve survived cancer. I’m raising three incredible kids. I’m pushing through college full-time to build a better future for us. But right now, my body is failing me. My organs are starting to malfunction, my symptoms are alarming, and my PCP here in Alaska told me directly that the care I need likely isn’t available here.
My sister was diagnosed with a rare disease at UAB in Alabama. The same medical team that helped her is willing to see me. Being at UAB would give me the best chance at answers and the support of my family while I undergo testing. But my insurance doesn’t cover out-of-state care, so all of these medical costs will be my responsibility.
That’s why I started this fundraiser. My initial $500 goal was just to get me started, but the reality is that even a basic evaluation and tests at UAB could run $2,000–$5,000 or more, not including further medical procedures, travel, and/or lodging if necessary.
The other day, my 4-year-old said, “I wish you were a better mommy, not a sick mommy.” A few weeks ago, my 13-year-old said, "I'm brainstorming ...what will happen to us if you die?" Hearing them voice such deep feelings broke something inside me. My kids deserve a mom who can be present...that they can have fond memories with... not one they have to worry about losing.
Your shares, prayers, and contributions mean the world to me and my family. Anything you feel led to give will help me access the testing and treatment that could finally offer answers and relief. Asking for help is beyond hard, but I’ve been told it’s also an act of courage. I’m choosing to fight for my health, my life, and my family.
I love you all. Thank you for being part of this fight with me.
