This past year has turned my life upside down in ways I never imagined. I’ve always been someone who works hard, shows up, and pushes through. But after the birth of my daughter on January 20th, 2025, my health declined rapidly and dramatically. What had previously been manageable or intermittent symptoms became severe, constant, and debilitating. Following her birth, I experienced a significant hemorrhage and later developed a blood clot, which marked the beginning of a major and ongoing shift in my health. Since then, I’ve been dealing with complex medical issues involving my vascular system, kidneys, and connective tissue, along with significant autonomic instability. I also have a suspected mast cell activation disorder (MCAS), which can cause severe reactions, inflammation, and unpredictable systemic symptoms. These conditions affect my heart rate, blood pressure, circulation, hearing, kidneys, and overall ability to function day to day. Standing, sitting upright, or walking for even short periods can trigger extreme symptoms. Many days, I’m largely confined to bed simply to remain stable and avoid medical emergencies. As my condition worsened postpartum, I became unable to work. I have been completely out of work since January 20th, 2025, and I have been without any form of pay since October 2025. Losing my income while my medical needs continued to increase has created an overwhelming financial strain. Savings were quickly depleted just trying to keep up with basic living expenses, medical appointments, testing, medications, and specialist care. This has been especially difficult as I’m a parent. A major part of what I’m seeking help for is childcare support. Because of our financial situation, we have not been able to afford a babysitter or additional childcare help. This has become one of our biggest challenges—especially with an upcoming necessary medical procedure and recovery period. Without additional childcare support, it’s extremely difficult to attend appointments, undergo procedures safely, or allow my body the rest it needs to heal. I want nothing more than to be present, active, and healthy for my children—but right now, I need help to make that possible. I’m actively undergoing evaluation and treatment for connective tissue disease, kidney involvement, vascular complications, and suspected MCAS, while preparing for this upcoming procedure that offers hope for improvement. While I’m hopeful this procedure and continued treatment will help stabilize my condition, recovery will take time and means continued physical limitations and more time away from work. Between lost wages, medical expenses, travel, necessary childcare, and everyday living costs, I’m facing a financial gap I cannot bridge alone. Asking for help is incredibly hard for me. But right now, support would mean the difference between barely surviving this chapter and having the stability and support needed to heal properly. Any contribution—no matter the size—will go directly toward medical expenses, essential bills, and childcare so I can safely receive care and recover. How your support will help • Childcare support so I can safely attend medical appointments, undergo my procedure, and recover without risking my health • Funds for childcare to help cover babysitting and temporary care assistance we have been unable to afford • Food and basic necessities during recovery, including groceries and simple meals while I’m physically limited • Medical-related expenses, including travel, appointments, medications, and recovery needs • Shared resources or recommendations, such as community programs, childcare options, meal support, or assistance services that may help us navigate this period If you’re unable to donate, sharing this page or keeping us in your thoughts means more than you know. Thank you for taking the time to read my story and for any kindness you’re able to offer. It truly means everything to us.