About this fundraiser

I am a young adult who loves my job, and it means so much to me. But here's the problem – a condition called Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS) has made it nearly impossible for me to continue working now and live a normal life.

HS is a painful skin condition that came out of the shadows this year, after being misdiagnosed as ingrown hairs for nearly a decade. It's like having painful lumps under your skin that never seem to go away. And let me tell you, it's beyond tough to deal with. It's made very emotions with each month as they come back with only antibiotics to help and that cannot be used long term. This condition worsened this year as well requiring constant antibiotics instead of back then I'd have this condition once or twice a year which was manageable to take antibiotics for… but I can't take antibiotics every month as it destroys gut bacteria and cause more problems instead of resolving.

I used to be a substitute teacher assistant in an adult transition program, helping young adults with down syndrome and autism learn essential life skills, teaching them self-respect, and making them feel valuable in our society as they should! It's my passion, and it gives my life so much meaning! These people are my friends and I want to make them know they are just as valuable. My program even gives these adults the chance to have a prom that they otherwise would feel unsure to going to at their previous general education schools because here they feel so welcomed and included with peers who go through similar experiences..

But unfortunately now, I'm unable to lift my arms, afraid to do anything that might make me sweat, as that's how these painful lumps begin. And the worst part? HS can't be cured, but there's a small light at the end of the tunnel for me.

One way to potentially get some relief is through laser hair removal and follow-up appointments, which could prevent these painful flare-ups. Unfortunately, my health insurance doesn't cover it because they see it as cosmetic, not necessary. That's where I need your help.

I'm not asking for a handout, just a chance to get my life back on track. Your donations would help me cover essential bills like food and utilities while also going towards those laser hair removal sessions. With your support, I can aim to return to my rewarding job, helping those young adults once more such as teaching them to uphold a job and how to use bus route systems.

My days are filled with pain, anxiety about triggering more flare-ups, and the weight of depression. I'm reaching out to our community in the hope of finding relief and getting back to my life's work. Your donation, no matter how small, can help me take the first steps towards healing and returning to the job I cherish. 

Please help me fight against HS and strive to make a positive impact on the lives of others. Your generosity can bring hope and healing to my world, one step at a time. Thank you for your kindness and consideration.

Organized by

Ramona Valles

Fresno, CA, USA

Organizer