Better Future

My name is Kleo Papathanasiou. I am an American citizen and have just finished my first year of college in Athens Greece. I moved to Greece with my family when i was one year old so we could take care of my grandmother after my grandfathers funeral. I was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes at age 12 and have spent the last 9 years trying to control it. My parents are retired and on a fixed income so i am trying to put myself through college so as to be more self sufficient. However my diabetes is becoming harder to manage and is beginning to affect other organs. I have been on numerous medications over the last 9 years and my doctors are continually trying to find the best combination to control my blood sugar levels. Recently i was diagnosed as a "brittle diabetic" a term used to describe hard to control Type 1 diabetes. It causes frequent episodes of very high or very low blood sugar levels that are unpredictable and happen for no apparent reason. These episodes can cause anxiety, dizziness, drowsiness, irritability and blurred vision, all which make day to day functions difficult, especially when i'm not sure when it will occur. My doctors are recommending that i have an insulin pump implanted so that insulin would be automatically injected into my system to keep my blood sugar levels regulated. The cost of a pump without medical insurance is between 4500-6000 euros which i cannot afford. The cost of the medication i am currently on are very expensive and i am at a crossroad on whether to continue my education. I will not be able to continue school and pay for my medications much longer. It is extremely difficult for me to put my dignity on the line for the first time in my life by asking for help, but i feel i have no choice. I can't seem to do this on my own anymore. If you cannot donate, please share with your contacts. Any help would be greatly appreciated.

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