Elizabeth's Recovery Fund
Donation protected
I never knew the impact that a little headache could have. The headache that started on for me March 8, 2010, however, has led me down a road I will never forget filled with hostpial stays, steroids, pain medications, MRI's, and CAT scans like a cycle stuck on repeat. All of that ultimately led to a Lupus diagnosis. The headache that started that day hasn't left my side, not for a second. It's a loyal beast. I've done my best to grin and bear it for almost 7 years now taking pretty much a steady stream of pain medicine, but as most people know, that is no way to live.
Many doctors have called my case a "mystery" and as my wise Grandmother, the RN says, "It never pays to be interesting in medicine!" Unfortunately, I am an odd case and I have traveled to many clinics for a fix, such as The Cleveland Clinic, Johns Hopkins, The National Institute of Health, 2 New York City Clinics, and many more. I have also been to two specialized headache clinics, the Diamond Headache Clinic and the Jefferson Headache Clinic, all to no avail.
These past few years with this pain and Lupus have cost me a lot. I had a full tuition scholarship to Randolph-Macon College which I couldn't utilize due to my illness. Since, I have been tryng to muddle through TCC but without much progress. I have become an empty shell, smiling when necessary in public and at work and crying at home. My days consist of waking up, going to work, and going to sleep. I don't hang out with friends anymore and rarely see them. I watch their lives and new careers race past mine as their accomplishments and new degrees shine while I have nothing to show for my four years out of high school. This wasn't supposed to be my life.
That is why I am here today, I am reaching out to get help to go to a therapy center in Utah, The Bridge Recovery Health Center, that will help me live life to the fullest, with less pain. When I found this place it was the first time I had hope. This first time I thought I might be able to get my dreams back and become a doctor. They use all kinds of techniques such as physical therapy, psycho therapy, chiropractic, aqua therapy, strength training, massage and more on top of traditional medical practices. This is a place for people specifically with chronic illnesses like mine. Insurance may cover some but as everyone knows, there are always expenses left over and we can't count on anything. The money raised here will cover the costs of the program and travel.
I really feel like it is time to take back my life and I am ready to get off of the side lines.
Any little bit helps. I really appreciate any help that can be given.
Love,
Liz
(Elizabeth McQuarrie)
Many doctors have called my case a "mystery" and as my wise Grandmother, the RN says, "It never pays to be interesting in medicine!" Unfortunately, I am an odd case and I have traveled to many clinics for a fix, such as The Cleveland Clinic, Johns Hopkins, The National Institute of Health, 2 New York City Clinics, and many more. I have also been to two specialized headache clinics, the Diamond Headache Clinic and the Jefferson Headache Clinic, all to no avail.
These past few years with this pain and Lupus have cost me a lot. I had a full tuition scholarship to Randolph-Macon College which I couldn't utilize due to my illness. Since, I have been tryng to muddle through TCC but without much progress. I have become an empty shell, smiling when necessary in public and at work and crying at home. My days consist of waking up, going to work, and going to sleep. I don't hang out with friends anymore and rarely see them. I watch their lives and new careers race past mine as their accomplishments and new degrees shine while I have nothing to show for my four years out of high school. This wasn't supposed to be my life.
That is why I am here today, I am reaching out to get help to go to a therapy center in Utah, The Bridge Recovery Health Center, that will help me live life to the fullest, with less pain. When I found this place it was the first time I had hope. This first time I thought I might be able to get my dreams back and become a doctor. They use all kinds of techniques such as physical therapy, psycho therapy, chiropractic, aqua therapy, strength training, massage and more on top of traditional medical practices. This is a place for people specifically with chronic illnesses like mine. Insurance may cover some but as everyone knows, there are always expenses left over and we can't count on anything. The money raised here will cover the costs of the program and travel.
I really feel like it is time to take back my life and I am ready to get off of the side lines.
Any little bit helps. I really appreciate any help that can be given.
Love,
Liz
(Elizabeth McQuarrie)
Organizer
Elizabeth McQuarrie
Organizer
Virginia Beach, VA