07/17/2026
I've struggled with whether or not to post this because asking for help has never come easily to me. But the truth is, I can't keep pretending everything is okay.
On June 17, my neck suddenly swelled to the point that looking down felt like I was being strangled. I had no idea that would be the day my life would change.
Since then, my body hasn't felt like my own.
Anything that raises my heart rate—even something as simple as walking too fast, standing for too long, or sometimes even sitting upright—can leave me with blurred vision, seeing spots, intense pounding pressure in my head, a racing heart, dizziness, and a terrifying feeling like I'm not fully in my own body. It's hard to explain unless you've experienced it, but it's frightening every single time.
I've been doing everything I can just to keep showing up for work, and by the time I am done, I have nothing left. Most of my life now is spent in bed because my body simply can't handle much more. It's taken away my independence, my energy, and so much of the life I used to take for granted.
The hardest part has been not having answers. I've been through appointment after appointment, bloodwork, and countless tests, only to be told everything looks "normal." I've stumped multiple doctors, but that doesn't change the reality that my body is telling me something is very wrong.
I've finally found a specialist in Calgary who focuses on dysautonomia and autonomic nervous system disorders. They can do more specialized testing for POTS and related conditions, and they offer treatment aimed at helping regulate and retrain the nervous system—something that gives me hope for the first time in weeks.
The downside is that getting there, paying for appointments, travel, and accommodations is more than I can manage while trying to survive this.
I've started a GoFundMe because I don't know what else to do. If you're able to donate, I would be forever grateful. If donating isn't possible, simply sharing my fundraiser could help it reach someone who can.
I miss feeling like myself. I miss having the energy to live instead of just trying to make it through each day. More than anything, I just want answers—and a chance to heal.
Thank you to everyone who has checked in on me, supported me, and believed me through all of this. Your kindness has carried me through some incredibly difficult days, and I'll never forget it. ❤️
My name is Crystal and over the past several months, my health h… Crystal Kautzman needs your support for Help Me Access Specialized Medical Care in Calgary
