Emergency Kidney Stone Surgery ~ Please Help!

Dearest Family & Friends,

I’m reaching out today to ask for your help in paying for my emergency kidney stone surgery taking place this Saturday, April 20th, 2024.

As you can see in the tomography image taken this past Sunday, there is a nearly 1" stone lodged in the middle of my left kidney. Besides the constant pain, there is the immediate concern that this stone will cause permanent damage to my kidney, and potential blockage to the ureter, both very dangerous situations.

My Urologist has concluded that because of the large size of this stone, "laser lithotripsy" is the best treatment for my condition. This procedure is done under general anesthesia, lasts about 2 hours, needs approximately 3 weeks of recovery, followed up by an in-office visit to remove a stent left in the ureter to assure no stones remain unpassed.

Over the past few months I've tried various kinds of other treatments to get this stone to pass, but it's only grown in size. I'm exhausted and feeling rather despairing at this point.

Travel to another town about 1-1/2 hours away is required for this surgery in order to have access to the best care possible, at the most economic price possible.

I am aiming to raise at least $7,800 USD to cover hospital & doctor fees, medicine, follow-up tests/treatments, food & transportation costs. Any contribution, big or small, will significantly help.

Thank you so much for your support during this difficult time. It is exceedingly humbling for me to ask for help, as I've always been fiercely independent. This situation has caused me to re-think staying in Mexico, and what my future as an aging expat might look like. Your generosity is eminently appreciated and I could not be more grateful for your contribution.

With infinite love & thanks, Joan Elena Goldberg (Joan, Joannie, Bernie's middle child .)