Laura's Disability Fund

Thank you for clicking through to this page. My name is Elyse and I'm writing on behalf of my good friend Laura, who has been struggling with rheumatoid arthritis since she was just 9 years old. She has just been able to manage it all these years, but recently, it has become very debilitating and she can no longer work. 

Rheumatoid arthritis is a crippling disease with no cure. Laura often has so much swelling in her joints that she can't walk or get out of bed. Her jaw swells and stiffens to the point where she can barely speak. Laura has worked very hard for years to be able to afford to live on her own, but a few months ago she was forced to take a leave because her symptoms became so intense. She moved back home with her mother.

Being the hardworking and dedicated person that she is, at the first signs of feeling better she decided to move back to her apartment in downtown Ottawa and went back to work. But her first week back didn't go so well -- she had to leave work early, and has had to call in to work the past few days. She doesn't know how she's going to make ends meet, with her condition that is stopping her from making money, and a disability system that simply put, is too slow.  

Ontario law requires a tenant to give at least 2 months' notice before moving out - that's 2 months' rent, at $624/month. She's currently panicking trying to figure out her next steps, paralyzed in the face of these seemingly monstrous decisions. Our goal is $1,872 because that will cover the 2 months' rent and will give her some extra money for groceries and basic living costs. 

For anyone who knows Laura, you know that she is one of the most kindhearted, bright, caring people on this planet. She goes above and beyond to help the people she loves, but right now she needs our help. It would mean the world to her and myself if you could donate to help her cause. Anything helps. Thank you so much.