Jennifer Accavallo

Help Me Breathe, Heal, and Regain My Life 

My name is Jennifer Accavallo, and I have been living with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS), a chronic connective tissue disorder that affects nearly every aspect of my daily life. In September, my health took a devastating turn when I developed a severe case of COVID pneumonia. Since then, I have become oxygen-dependent and was also diagnosed with gastroparesis, which has left me unable to eat solid food. Over the past several months, I have lost 45 pounds and continue to face ongoing medical challenges. 

Despite everything, I try to hold on to the things that bring me joy. I love reading and have set a goal of reading 110 books this year. I also love cats—especially black cats—and enjoy adult coloring as a creative outlet. I even have an art page where I share my work. These hobbies help me stay positive on the difficult days. 

Living with these conditions has changed nearly every part of my life. Eating is no longer something I can simply enjoy. Because I rely on oxygen, even everyday tasks like showering, doing housework, climbing the stairs to my apartment, or singing in my choir have become exhausting and difficult. My stamina is limited, and activities I once took for granted now require careful planning and extra energy. 

I am raising funds to help cover the overwhelming medical expenses that continue to pile up. I am currently four months behind on my oxygen co-pays. In addition to those costs, I have frequent hospital testing, $60 co-pays every two months for pain management, physician visit co-pays, and spinal injection procedures twice a year. Even with insurance, the out-of-pocket expenses have become more than I can manage while trying to focus on my health. 

Your support would do so much more than help pay medical bills. It would allow me to catch up on essential household expenses, reduce the constant stress of worrying about finances, and simply be able to buy groceries without wondering how I’ll make ends meet. Most importantly, it would allow me to focus on healing instead of choosing between medical care and everyday necessities. 

If you are able, please consider making a donation or sharing my fundraiser with others. Every contribution, no matter the size, brings me one step closer to financial stability and gives me the opportunity to focus on my recovery. Your kindness, prayers, and encouragement mean more than words can express. 

Thank you for taking the time to read my story and for any support you are able to provide.