Support Roberta's Life-Changing Endometriosis Surgery

Hello, my name is Roberta and I’m reaching out for support in my battle with severe endometriosis—a condition that has profoundly impacted my health, career, and life. After years of unrelenting pain, medical gaslighting, and missed opportunities, I now face the challenge of needing a highly specialized, life changing surgery to treat this disease's spread to other organs and address the tethered lesions created that have taken a toll on my body and it’s ability to function. I will be without income during this time and need help covering the cost of my medical expenses, post surgical care , and living expenses during my recovery.

My Journey with Endometriosis-

For years, I’ve fought endometriosis, a painful condition where tissue similar to the uterine lining grows in other parts of the body. In my case, it has progressed far beyond my reproductive organs, forming tethered lesions on vital organs and causing unbearable pain and severe health complications. This disease has been physically, emotionally, and financially devastating, as it has turned my life completely upside down. I’ve endured and am a still enduring countless medical visits, entire days spent on the Emergency Room floor, and new treatments—all with the hope of regaining a pain-free life.

The Need for Specialized Care

Due to the complexity of my condition, I require a team of specialty doctors who are experts in advanced endometriosis surgery. As well as 2 other specialists regarding 2 specific organs at risk. This surgery is not just about removing the lesions—it’s about preserving my quality of life and ensuring that my organs function properly, and the need for future surgery is lessened. This level of care requires a highly skilled team that understands the unique challenges of treating endometriosis in its severe form, And thankfully the team at Harbor Ucla has an amazing endometriosis team, but unfortunately, specialized care often comes at a high cost, such as a longer wait before cleared for surgery and possible longer recovery.

The Impact on My Career and Financial Situation

Navigating my career while managing endometriosis has been incredibly difficult. My former workplace offered little understanding or compassion for my condition. I faced a lack of accommodations for my health needs, and they were extremely unwilling to recognize the frequent medical appointments and procedures required to manage my current condition. Despite providing more than enough documentation , and doctor’s notes at every turn, I was repeatedly met with requests for more paperwork and dismissive pushback regarding my health-related needs.

After months and months of feeling dismissed, I was recently forced to leave my position, as it became impossible to manage both my health and my job under such conditions. With surgery on the horizon I am currently medically disabled, and my Job was not trying to find a way to accommodate me and my upcoming procedures, often threatening remarks were made that made me feel ultimately unsafe and unsupported at that place of work. I now face a minimum three-month period without work or income. This time includes my pre-surgery consultations, the surgery itself, and an extensive recovery period, which is expected to take several weeks or even months due to the severity of my condition.

Why I Need Your Help

The costs associated with this surgery and the following recovery are overwhelming. Without a job to support me, I am unable to cover my medical bills, living expenses, and other necessary costs on my own. I am seeking assistance to help me fund the surgery and bridge the gap during my recovery period. Your support would allow me to focus on healing without the constant stress of financial strain.

Funds will go toward:

Specialized Surgery Costs: Covering any portion of the surgery not covered by my insurance.

Medical Appointments and Travel Expenses: Frequent travel is required to see the specialty team, with pre- and post-surgery consultations.

Living Expenses: Support during my three-month recovery period, as I will be without an income. Aid in Rent, Food, etc

How You Can Help

Every dollar raised will bring me closer to receiving the treatment I need to reclaim my life from this debilitating condition. If you’re unable to donate, sharing this campaign with others would also mean the world to me. With your help, I hope to get back to a place where I can live pain-free and return to work and a fulfilling life.

Thank you so much for reading my story and for any support you can offer. It’s been a long and challenging road, but with your kindness and generosity, I believe there’s light at the end of this journey.

With Nothing but Gratitude ,

Roberta Glennon-Rule