Waihī Beach woman fundraising for life-saving surgery
Pam Coburn, a 40-year-old mother of 2 from Athenree, was diagnosed with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) in September 2023 and, in March 2024, had Abdominal Vascular Compression Syndromes (AVCS) confirmed.
“I need urgent surgery, or I’ll likely keep deteriorating until my body gives in,” she says.
Unfortunately, the New Zealand public health system does not acknowledge AVCS or EDS. In order to receive the care she needs to be able to participate in life, rather than simply survive, Pam needs surgery from one of a few specialists who perform the complicated AVCS surgery.
“It’s going to cost upwards of $180K, so we need all the help we can to get there,” says Pam.
This didn’t happen suddenly for her. She’s had a lifetime filled with illnesses and injuries.
“The main health events were at birth, nine years, 18, 30 and 38. The last one has not faded into the background like the others. In fact, it’s getting worse. Since 1st January this year, my health has deteriorated quickly,” she says.
Pam suffers from many symptoms, but she explains that the worst are debilitating left flank pain, the inability to eat and drink due to intense abdominal pain and nausea, and always feeling full.
During the day, Pam spends most of her time in bed. Her tasks are to manage her medication, change her feeds, and heat up heat packs. They are simple but challenging to complete.
“I can’t do anything. My husband works and has taken on the household tasks, all the parenting, everything”.
There is not much living going on for any of them.
“I miss playing with my boys, visiting family and friends, eating.” All those simple things we take for granted. With surgery, Pam will be able to start living life again.
To follow Pam’s story, find her on Facebook: “Pam’s Positively Full Life”. If you can help with a financial gift, visit Pam’s Givealittle page at givealittle.co.nz and search for ‘Pamela Coburn’.