Mazie's Endometriosis Fundraiser

Hello All,

I am here again asking for support from my community.

A Brief History:

In Jan 2022 my digestive system started failing. I was unable to digest most food and in a matter of a few months I was unable to process anything that wasn’t liquid. I had SIBO (small intestinal bacterial overgrowth), Candida Overgrowth, Disordered eating habits, gastro dysfunction (still seeking a diagnosis), and Undiagnosed Endometriosis (Endo). I had 2 ER visits after I was unable to keep my balance due to lack of calories. My body wasn’t absorbing nutrients, I was Anemic and last 30 pounds withing a only a couple months. I slept through a lot of my days - either too tired and foggy to get out of bed or in too much pain.

BUT IT GOT BETTER! After my good friends set me up a Gofundme last year I was able to seek the help I needed. I was able to access the antibiotics and food I needed to begin healing my gut. I was able to work with my doctor and dietitian to help with getting enough nutrients and build back my strength. I was able to find a stable living situation that I can could feel comfy in and heal. I was able to get a much needed surgery and worked with one of the best pelvic health surgeons. I am so incredibly lucky and gracious that I was able to do all of these things. The medical industry is exploitative and I truly don’t know where I would be had I not had the support/funds to get better. I would be infinitely sicker right now if I had not gotten help from my community and I thank every person who donated or sent a message. I really needed it at that point.

Where I am now:

In July I had Laparoscopic Excision Surgery for Endometriosis. Where they cut out any extra tissue growth. I was officially diagnosed with stage 2 Deep Infiltrating Endo (DIE) around my uterus, on my ovaries, and all throughout the pelvic cavities. This year I also had an endoscopy/colonoscopy, a CT scan, pelvic ultrasound, and Anorectal manometry (google that one I dare you), and much more blood work and various testing. I am feeling BETTER but not great. I am dealing with a lot of pelvic pain. Surgery came with a diagnosis and some relief but also has caused my body to create pockets of pain that can flare up anytime.

What’s Next:

I have not been able to work consistently during this time of healing. I take anything I can but often have to pass up days of work for pain days. These flare ups can last a day or 4 days depending on the week. Having Endo has always been painful and something to juggle. I’ve always had trouble holding a regular scheduled job ever since I was a teeanger. Predicting the pain is difficult and when it hits, completely debilitating.

After working with my surgeon at New England Pelvic Health and my gastro doctor at Portland Portland Gastroenterology They both have recommended two different forms of pelvic floor therapy. Saco Bay Physical Therapy takes my health insurance but the co-pay is $150/per visit and I’ll likely need 40 sessions in total for both treatments or more visits which is about $6000 out of pocket. I also need funds for food and rent while I steady my health enough to work consistently.

If you're able to give a few dollars, great, if you're not able to, that's okay too. It's been a slow year for us all.

I love you every one of you,

Mazie