I'm making this fundraiser in hopes to receive help to cover medical costs for treating IIH (Idiopathic Intercranial Hypertension) and Scleroderma. 

I was diagnosed with IIH in 2024 from head MRI and CT scan results. I've received two lumbar punctures since being diagnosed with IIH. One lumbar puncture sent me to the ER due to the high pressure in my skull. If you don't know what IIH is, it's a neurological condition that mimics a brain tumor. There is intense and painful high pressure in the skull and there's no known reason or cause why this happens. The pressure is from too much CSF or cerebral spinal fluid surrounding the brain. I suffer with migraines daily, blurred vision, double vision, high ear-piercing ringing in the ears, wobbly balance, dizziness. There is no cure for this disease. As of now, February 2026, I am looking to finally get the stent surgery so that I can live much more pressure free. But, since I recently moved to a new state (Virginia) I have to wait for a referral to be placed for that dream to happen.

In January 2026, I went in for my routine doctor visit and my doctor had my lab results. She had to break it to me that I tested positive on my ANA test. ANA stands for Antinuclear Antibody. This test acts as a key screening tool for autoimmune diseases. I was already being treated for hypothyroidism and Raynaud's disease.  She told me that I have Scleroderma. I wasn't mentally prepared to hear that I have yet another new condition that has to be treated. Scleroderma is a rare autoimmune disease that produces too much collagen. For some patients, their skin hardens, and others, their organs become compromised. For me, my limbs are slowly becoming compromised. It's difficult to lift my arms freely. It's difficult to walk normal - I have to use a cane to walk. This is a new territory and I am scared of this disease! This disease I am the most scared of because it can take a person's life. I am scared for my life. 

I am making this fundraiser to help fund my travels. I have to travel to different parts of Virginia to meet with medical professionals. As of right now, we are relying on my husband's VA disability, but all of his funds are going to rent, bills, and whatever food we can afford - which isn't much. We are barely scraping by. I am waiting for SSA's determination of me getting SSDI. We've been struggling living off of one income for 2 years. The funds raised would help us out greatly with gas money traveling from one city to the next. 

I will post updates (If I can - I am new to this website) as I am meeting with my medical team. I appreciate you taking the time to read my fundraiser and story. It means a lot! 

-Heather