Two years ago, my best friend Payten had a stroke at just 23 years old—caused by multiple artery dissections. Since then, she’s shown remarkable strength and resilience, rebuilding her life while continuing to manage the complex medical challenges that followed.
Today, she’s still under the care of neurology and vascular specialists as dissections continue to appear without a clear explanation. While she’s working and doing everything she can to stay strong, her medical journey is far from over—and navigating it shouldn’t be made harder by insurance barriers and out-of-pocket costs.
Payten is one of the most kind, hilarious, and deeply resilient people I know. She’s facing something rare and difficult, especially for her age, and she’s doing it with grace—but she shouldn’t have to do it alone.
This fundraiser will go directly toward her ongoing medical expenses, including specialist visits, imaging, and necessary follow-ups, to ensure she can access the care she needs without delay or financial strain.
If you’re able to contribute or share, it would mean the world. Every gesture helps ease the path forward for someone who truly deserves it.
If you would prefer to send money via Venmo and avoid the fees on here, her Venmo is: @payten-craig
With gratitude,
Nalani Saeks
