This is honestly one of the hardest things I’ve ever written because asking for help does not come naturally to me. I wasn’t even searching for anything like this when I came across it but felt maybe it was a sign of some sort. I’ve gone back and forth about whether to even post this, but I’ve finally decided to just share my story and see what happens. I feel silly or more embarrassed to ask for something such as a cash donation for something like this when there are far worse situations needing help.

Anyways, I am a stay-at-home mom homeschooling my daughter while working from home and working toward my bachelor’s degree in radiology and CT certification, so this journey has been especially overwhelming at times.

To be completely transparent when I was 21 years old, I had a Septoplasty surgery to correct a deviated septum and improve my breathing. In addition to that, my ENT shaved down a hump on my nose—something I had wanted my whole life after being picked on and bullied for it for years. I was looking forward to that surgery in more ways than one, but unfortunately, things did not go as planned. What was supposed to be a routine procedure turned into years of ongoing problems. The original ENT performed multiple additional surgeries in an attempt to fix the issues, but with each surgery, my nose became more deviated and my breathing became more difficult.

I am now 35 years old and still dealing with the effects every single day.

Breathing is something most people never have to think about, but for me it’s a constant struggle. I breathe through my mouth far more than I should. Exercise can be frustrating because I often feel like I’m not getting enough air. At times I actually have to push one side of my nose over just to feel like I can breathe better. I also believe it has affected my sleep for years, because getting restful sleep has been an ongoing challenge.

Over the years, I have consulted with multiple doctors and surgeons. Because my case is considered complex and corrective in nature, finding someone willing to take it on and within reasonable travels has been very difficult. After a long search, I finally found a surgeon who gave me something I haven’t felt in a long time—hope.

I met with Dr. Adam Stein in Raleigh, North Carolina, and after reviewing my case, he is confident he can correct the damage and significantly improve my breathing and quality of life. For the first time in many years, I feel like there is a real solution. Sadly, he does not accept health insurance.

Knowing how important this opportunity is, I started a payment plan and have been making payments toward the surgery. Unfortunately, life has thrown a few unexpected financial challenges my way, and I am now worried about being able to complete the payments before my agreement expires at the end of this year.

I hate asking for help. In fact, I’ve probably waited longer than I should have because I kept telling myself I would figure it out somehow. But I’ve already invested so much into this surgery, and more importantly, into the possibility of finally being able to breathe normally again.

If you are able to contribute, no matter the amount, I would be incredibly grateful. If you aren’t in a position to give, sharing my story or simply keeping me in your thoughts and prayers would mean just as much. If I should receive any help from this site, I will never forget it and I truly plan to give back in any way that I can especially after completing my degree and certification.

Thank you for taking the time to read this. Your kindness, support, and encouragement truly mean more than words can express.

With love and gratitude

*Update*

Since posting this way early this morning from being unable to sleep (not surprising) I have come to the conclusion that prayers and good vibes are the only things that I want and need on this journey. I ironically came across a remote job that fits my radiology background and hours I can swing and applied for it today. It would make me having two jobs so hopefully with that I can get my surgery and not lose all the money I have already paid. I have always believed you have to work hard for what you want and I don’t think that I could actually accept a handout but I can accept prayers and good vibes. Thanks yall!