It’s terrifying to be so vulnerable, but here goes. I have had chronic and severe tonsillitis over the last few years, which has significantly impacted my ability to work, save, and navigate daily life effectively. Having had to deal with this for so long, this is now impacting my mental wellbeing, and I feel like I am really starting to struggle. I have made the decision to have my tonsils removed, after my doctor explained the dangerous and long-term implications that recurring tonsillitis can have for my heart and liver. However, I’ve just been advised that the current wait time for public patients is 4-5 years, and have been quoted $6-$10k for private care. If I can get private health insurance, I would still need to wait 12 months for the procedure. To say that I am devastated would be an incredible understatement. I feel trapped, afraid, and just want to cry. I’ve had 11 episodes within 2.5 years, so feel that waiting isn’t a viable option for my body or my mental health. I am embarrassed to say that I don’t have the means to access private care quickly, so have made the decision to open a crowdfund for this procedure. My goal is that these funds, in addition to any savings I can put aside between episodes, will help me to access the surgery asap. I can’t tell you how nervous I am to ask for help, and how much I appreciate anyone who even takes the time to read this. It is very out of my comfort zone to do this but life be pushing me out of the comfy zone, so here I am. I appreciate you all. Big love, Vi