Help Kai get life saving surgery

Hi, I'm Kai, I'm 17. I suffer from severe pain, dislocating joints, constant nausea and vomiting plus fainting and seizures. For years, doctors have dismissed my symptoms, leaving me without medical care or treatment. Without medical help, my condition will continue to deteriorate, limiting further my already very limited life.

But there's a glimmer of hope, I've finally received a diagnosis for my mystery illness. I have Hypermobile Ehlers Danlos Syndrome (HEDs) and Abdominal Vascular Compression Syndromes (AVCs). These conditions are the underlying cause for my symptoms.

Fortunately, AVCS can be treated with surgery to improve my symptoms, however as AVCS are very rare this surgery is unavailable in NZ. This means I have to self-fund the huge cost to undergo surgery in Germany. Without this surgery, my life will continue to be limited due to my symptoms.

Financially, things are difficult, I’ve supported myself since I was 16. I'm studying vet nursing, doing volunteer work, and working a cleaning job but due to my ill health, my ability to study and work has been severely limited. Unfortunately, I don't have family support to fall back on.

I'm incredibly grateful for anything you donate. If you're unable to contribute financially, sharing my story with your networks would also make a huge difference. Thank you so much for your kindness and support. If I can't raise enough funds for the surgery, every donation will go toward my ongoing medical care.

Thank you for your help,

Kai.