- S
Hi everyone. After the end of a long-term relationship I’ve been navigating an ongoing property and financial settlement process that’s stretched far beyond what I ever expected emotionally, mentally, and financially. It’s a deeply personal and complex process, and while I can’t share all the details publicly I’m doing everything I can to reach a fair outcome and rebuild my life with stability and independence.
Since the separation, I’ve had to move twice - the first home I moved into turned out to be unsafe and uninhabitable, forcing another unexpected relocation and adding to my financial strain. I’ve also been covering the costs of caring for the pets almost entirely on my own, while juggling multiple small businesses and creative income streams to stay afloat.
I’ve been self-employed for nearly a decade, which makes returning to the traditional workforce impossible, especially with my mental health and the added pressure of moving twice and handling this legal process. My income comes from a mix of creative work, markets, and online sales but it still hasn’t been enough to keep up with the relentless costs of this drawn-out process.
So far, I’ve already paid around $8,000 in legal fees, and my lawyer has advised that the next stage is likely to cost another $6,000–$9,500. Every step forward has been slower and more expensive, and my resources are now stretched to the limit.
I’ve paused major expenses under hardship, reduced every cost I can, and worked hard to stay on top of both personal and business expenses. But even with multiple income streams, it’s simply become too much to manage alone.
I’ll be honest, it’s humbling and even a little embarrassing to ask for help again. I’ve always prided myself on being independent, resilient, and resourceful. But right now, I just want the chance to fight for what’s fair and what’s mine and to come out the other side with dignity and stability.
Your contribution no matter how small helps me:
- Cover essential legal and mediation costs
- Pay for accounting and document preparation required for the settlement
- Keep my creative businesses running through this hardship
- Support my pets’ ongoing care and stability
- Take steps toward securing safe, stable long term housing
I’m not asking for sympathy. I’m asking for the opportunity to close this chapter fairly and finally start rebuilding. Even if you can’t donate, sharing this campaign or sending kind words truly means the world. Thank you for helping me keep going and take one step closer to the fresh start I’ve been fighting for.
With love and gratitude,
Erika