Help Jess break free from chronic ear disease!

Dear Friends and Supporters,

I'm reaching out to you today for your support in my efforts to end my constant ear pain. As many of you know I’ve lived with ear issues most of my life. The past 3 years have been especially difficult. I basically have an ear infection, ALL the time. To alleviate this my newest otolaryngologist (ENT) will perform an extremely intricate, 4 hour operation. In big words; surgery will consist of tympanoplasty with mastoidectomy with possible acicular chain reconstruction and possible cartilage graft. My goal is no more pain; while the Doctor is hopeful for restored hearing as well!

I’ve been living with constant pain, discomfort, and the added burden of not being able to hear. With a surgery date set for May 24th, I’m filled with optimism knowing this surgery can finally give the relief I’ve been so desperately seeking.

However, the journey to healing isn't without its financial burdens. The expenses of surgery and the additional costs associated are significant. As I prepare to undergo this life-changing procedure, any contribution, no matter how small, would be a tremendous blessing. Your support will help make this surgery financially feasible.

If you'd like to hear more about what has been going on the past few years read on!

November 2022 I was once again in pain and determined to find an answer, to get the help I so desperately needed. After multiple trips to urgent care, ENT offices and even MUSC I continuously came up empty. I was presented with “exploratory surgery” which I didn’t like the sound of and completely put that idea to the back of my mind.

November 16, 2023 I sat at my desk with tears running down my face, trying to do my work. I had been in excruciating pain for two full weeks. I called several ENT offices, multiple times asking for cancellations, etc. I couldn’t get scheduled anywhere for at least a month out. The pain and pressure in my head was so bad I couldn’t take it anymore, not to mention I couldn’t hear anything! I went to the Emergency Room and was given a steroid shot which helped with the pressure. I remember sitting in the ER sobbing; I kept saying “why won’t anyone help me”? From there I saw a new primary care doctor who referred me to a specific ENT. I called that ENT office many times and was not able to get an appointment. One day I went to the office and asked the receptionist to please schedule me with Dr. X. She assured me I was scheduled with Dr. X and gave me the Drs card. Fast forward several weeks to the day before my appointment I received a confirmation call for my appointment with the PA. I was livid!!! I went to the appointment anyway and the PA referred me to PT for TMJ. I have been jumping through hoops trying whatever had been recommended, ie Chiropractic, diet change, PT – Nothing has helped and until now it seemed like no one was willing to help me. I'm excited and hopeful for this next step.

With so much gratitude,

Jessica