Hello, my name is Stella Danailova Sevdalinova.

I am 35 years old and I live in Burgas. I am a mother of two small children, one of them is diagnosed with autism and needs constant specialized care, which I provide entirely with my own funds.

My health problem started about a year ago with severe pain and numbness in my left arm and between my shoulder blades. After multiple checkups with neurologists and unsuccessful treatment, I had an MRI and was referred to a neurosurgeon. The diagnosis was: disc herniation of the cervical spine at two levels - C4, C5, C6 - and the need for emergency surgery.

The surgery was performed in Bulgaria 7 months ago. To carry it out, I took out a loan as the NHIF did not cover the full cost and the implants needed were extremely expensive. I had hoped that after the surgery I would recover, but the pain returned the first day after discharge - even worse and unbearable. I had difficulty moving my neck and head, and the pain went down my back. The attending physician insisted it was muscle spasms, but pain medication didn't help, and he stopped returning my calls.

I sought a second opinion and had new tests (MRI and scanner) which showed that the surgery was unsuccessful. The implants were placed incorrectly, the wrong size, and the screws had damaged the C5 vertebra and were pinching nerve endings. A second, very complicated operation was needed, but no neurosurgeon in Bulgaria agreed to perform it because of the high risk.

With the help of relatives I reached prof. Serdar Kahraman in Turkey. He carried out a thorough examination and confirmed the seriousness of the condition - if the operation is not done as soon as possible, there is a real risk of paralysis.

I received an official offer for the operation, the cost is 45,000 euros. Unfortunately, this amount is unaffordable for me and my family. I am still paying off the loan for the previous operation and cannot take on a new one. My pain continues on a daily basis, it is difficult to move and I now need help with even basic activities of daily living.

I ask anyone who is able to lend a hand at this extremely difficult time. I am struggling not only for myself but especially for my two children who need a mother. Especially my autistic child who will need support throughout his life.

I believe in the goodness of people. Every help, even the smallest, makes a difference. Thank you from the bottom of my heart!