Operation Yeti Needs Wheels

Hello! I'm Joseph Yetman, but everyone knows me as Yeti. I'm a permanently disabled Minneapolis-based photographer. I suffer from cervical dystonia, a painful movement disorder, as well as degenerative spinal disease. I have scarring on the inside of my spinal cord from an implant that also caused some nerve damage. I'm unable to work a regular full time job. When I do work, I have to make every moment count and maximize my earning potential. My partner Vanessa and I run Northern Star Boudoir, our emphasis is on celebration of body and self. I'm usually fiercely independent, to the point that it's mentally and physically crippling, but I'm in a bind. I humble myself before you and ask for your help with purchasing a different vehicle, as mine was mortally wounded the other day. Sometimes I need a little boost, especially when emergencies happen.

My life's work goes beyond boudoir, portraits, and weddings. I started a community project about 8 years ago called, "The Isaac Initiative." I photograph families of children with life-threatening illnesses and those in hospice care. I took a couple years off, but I'm back at it again, behind the scenes. I do it for free and I give each family a premium photo book, along with the files. I also provide end-of-life sessions for adults. It goes without saying that private transportation is crucial with my work and service. I invest my time and efforts into other community projects and people, through the lens of my camera and storytelling. I'm one of the youngest people in Minnesota to be appointed to a public commission by city council when I was only 14. First as a youth member on the Parks Commission, and then a full-time voting member when I was 16. I started with my pet project, a skateboard park, and moved on to have my ideas implemented in other cities. I've helped design all kinds of elements of park and recreation systems. I've also served on a variety of smaller community boards and groups. I've consistently volunteered since I was in 2nd grade. One of my biggest fears is that I won't contribute anything meaningful, so I strive to create and invite other people on the journey with me.

I've beaten homelessness 4 times since I was 16, and I've survived childhood sexual abuse and consistent physical violence. I've managed to rise above it all, with the help from my community. I've been thriving (which for a 37-year-old disabled man, means paying most of your bills) but large expenses like these are impossible for me to cover and I'm asking my community for support. By helping me, you also help those I serve by keeping prices reasonable. Depth, authenticity, and inclusion are the single most important aspects of my work that I focus on, and I strive to make it accessible to folks from all different corners of society. I believe the whole process of a session and the photos they produce can be a catalyst for healing and compassion. You'll find all different shapes, sizes, and colors of people on my website.

Any help is appreciated, whether it's $5 or $5 million. Thanks so much for taking the time to read a bit of my story. -Yeti