Life with PMDD - surgery fundraiser

Pre Menstrual Dysphoric Disorder is the brains reaction to fluctuating hormones during the two weeks of the luteal phase. It’s a serious health condition causing varying physical and mental health issues.

Most of my life, I have faced insurmountable battles with depression, shame, extreme anxiety, pushed away people I care about, fearful of burdening anyone and contemplated suicide. If I wasn’t surrounded by my family who truly know and love me, I fear that I wouldn’t be here today.

I’ve been to endless doctors, counsellors, prescribed countless antidepressants and birth control and tried different treatments to find a solution. I was seeking an answer and help, positive that all of it is related to my menstrual cycle and not simply PMS, but none knew PMDD was a thing.

In January I visited a womens health specialist. I was diagnosed with severe PMDD and immediately placed on a treatment resulting in chemical menopause to determine if it is my brain reacting to fluctuating hormones. This treatment tests if I am a candidate for hysterectomy and bilateral oopherectomy. Surgical menopause and HRT are effective in relieving symptoms of PMDD. While I am grateful to have a way forward, it comes at a huge cost.

We can't get any funding from ACC or public health so we have opted to get a loan to pay for the surgery privately. This is an immense sum for our family but ultimately my health and quality of life are most important.

If you can help in any way with a donation no amount is too small, your support is greatly appreciated.