Hey there!
I’m Kelly and I’m reaching out because I urgently need your help. I have been trying to raise money for a long time now so I can afford medical treatment for multiple painful conditions.
Over two years ago, I fell and broke a lead in my DRG stimulator (which I have for my CRPS). I was in constant agonizing pain for over a year before I was able to have surgery to replace it, thanks to generous donations that covered one fifth of the cost. We had to borrow against a 401K for the rest.
I was elated to get my life back for a few months, until I got hit with the worst chronic pain I've had yet. It has kept me mostly immobile. I had a feeling I knew what was wrong, but didn't know how to talk about it. I was already getting accused of scamming people (which every disabled person gets accused of when they try to raise money for medical or living expenses), and when I found out that this other condition that I live with in addition to my CRPS actually has a name, it gave me some much needed validation; however, I still couldn't talk about it without being overwhelmed with hurtful, fatphobic comments. So I've tried to raise money while not openly discussing my diagnosis, because I was too afraid to.
This condition, that I've had since I was very young but which has become debilitating over the past couple of years, is called Lipedema. Not Lymphedema. Lipedema. It is a chronic condition where fat builds up abnormally in my legs and arms. It’s not just regular weight gain; losing weight doesn’t make it go away. This condition brings along painful symptoms like swelling, easy bruising, and constant pain and numbness, making everyday life a challenge. I could drop 30 pounds overnight but it will change nothing about my limbs. I've always been self conscious about my limbs. Even when I was a size 2, they were still big. I didn't understand why my body never looked "normal" or why I always felt like my legs were covered in painful bruises.
Lipedema has drastically changed my life, and the treatment is incredibly expensive. Unfortunately, my insurance doesn’t cover the surgery, and conventional treatment still requires me to spend $5,000 a year on a deductible that I cannot afford. Because of the scamming accusations I face every time I try to share my fundraiser, I haven't felt safe doing so - which is really discouraging because all I’m trying to do is survive and get the help I need. I also get shamed for wanting access to inaffordible weight loss drugs (Certain ones can actually help with Lipedema), and called "fatphobic" for "blaming all my problems on my weight". These people don't take the time to realize that in the case of lipedema, fat is THE issue, and diet and exercise don't affect it.
Here’s the kicker: when fundraising for disabled folks like me gets blocked, it’s not just unkind—it can be dangerous. Harassment doesn’t just hurt feelings; it keeps me in pain and makes my condition worse. I’ve faced struggles that led me to a very dark place. This isn’t just my story; it’s happening to countless disabled people out there, and it’s a form of violence that absolutely needs to stop.
So here’s where you come in. If you can support my fundraiser, it would mean the world to me! Your donations will help cover my medical deductible and establish emergency funds for basic needs, as well as be able to try out other effective forms of treatment, such as physical therapy, massage, a rebounder, etc. Every contribution, no matter how small, makes a difference in my ability to access vital healthcare.
Thank you so much for your kindness and generosity. If you can’t donate, sharing my story with others can also provide invaluable support. Together, let’s stand against this kind of harassment. I’m still here, still fighting, and I hope you’ll join me—because no one should have to face this alone!
With all my gratitude,
Kelly Keane
Cyborg Queen Media
