Hello, and thank you for taking a moment to hear my story.

My name is Renae. I’m 29 years old, living in the greater Sacramento area, and for the past several months, my life has been turned upside down by severe medical complications. What began as gastrointestinal issues has now left me largely bedridden, shuttling between doctors’ appointments, unable to work, and awaiting further procedures to rule out the possibility of something even more serious.

Until recently, I worked steadily in the legal field, holding positions at two law firms. But the toll of overworking, combined with hereditary health factors, caught up with me. On my doctors’ orders, I was forced to take extended leave from both positions. The physical illness has been relentless—but the impact has not only been physical. It has shaken my mental health to its core.

In the midst of being so sick and unable to function, I fell into a spiral of depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts. I was ultimately admitted to Woodland Memorial Behavioral Health, where I received critical psychiatric care. While I am now out of crisis and working hard to recover, I’ve been left with overwhelming medical bills on top of my everyday cost of living.

I could never have prepared myself for the weight of this—physically, emotionally, and financially. Even though I am slowly trying to pick up hours at work and take on side jobs where I can, it isn’t enough. The reality is that I am at serious risk of losing my home and, with it, my beloved animals who depend on me.

This is not easy for me to admit. It is deeply humbling—and honestly, embarrassing—to ask for help. But at this point, I have no other option. I do not qualify for public assistance programs due to technicalities in income thresholds based on what I would normally make if I were healthy. The truth is, right now I am not healthy, and I cannot meet these expenses on my own.

If you are able, I am asking from the bottom of my heart for your support in helping me stay in my home and keep stability while I continue to fight for my health. Any amount makes a difference, and I am endlessly grateful for the kindness and generosity of those who can step in during this dark chapter of my life.

Thank you for taking the time to listen, and for any support you can offer—whether through donations, sharing my story, or simply sending encouragement. Your compassion gives me strength to keep going.

With gratitude,

Renae