Help Jenn Overcome Sphincter of Oddi Syndrome

Hello everyone and thank you for stopping by my fundraising page. I am trying to raise funds so I can get a medically necessary procedure called a biliary endoscopic sphincteromy. In April of 2023 I was rushed via ambulance to the nearest hospital from work for upper right quadrant pain that caused me to lose consciousness. Coupled with nausea, vomiting, and elevated blood pressure the doctors in the ER worked quickly to get my vitals stabilized. I was hospitalized for four days and lost 12 pounds. Since then, I have had to go to the ER around 20 times, once or twice a month for over a year! During this whole experience GI specialists worked hard with various testing and diagnostic tools including endoscopy, MRI, HIDA scans, bloodwork, and others to pinpoint the root cause of my issues. Every time I end up in the ER it is the same sudden onset of excruciating abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting, elevated blood pressure which sometimes feels like chest pain all of which require hours of medical pain management, fluids and stabilization before I can be released with no answers and loads of frustration.

However, after my last ER visit the tending doctor moved quickly with the right diagnostic imaging and was able to finally capture the conditions the doctors have been waiting for to diagnose me with a rare pathology called Type I Sphincter of Oddi syndrome. Unfortunately, because it is rare not a ton of medical research has been done to understand why this condition exists however many patients have some relief after getting this procedure done. My healthcare team feels confident I am a good candidate for the procedure, and it may eliminate or reduce the flare ups that have wreaked havoc on my life.

Because I am a full-time student and have been paying out of pocket to maintain my insurance and all of the costs that have come with so many trips to the ER that have been necessary this past year the procedure is a cost I am not equipped to handle right now. The truth of the matter is I need help making this a reality. I am beyond exhausted by the endless ER trips and am hopeful this can help get my health back on track. I'm asking you to pitch in and help me find some resolution. Thank you for taking the time to read my story, I am greatly appreciative of any contributions you are able to make.

It's my sincere hope that when I am done with school as a RN I will be able to provide the same amazing care the various doctors and nurses have afford me through this medical mystery. I promise to pay it forward when I am able.

With endless love & gratitude,

Jenn