A Lesson in Asking for Help — Support My Career Transition

For most of my life, I believed that if I just worked hard enough, I could figure everything out on my own. But life has a way of humbling you, and sometimes the bravest thing you can do is ask for help.

The Journey

In 2023, I made a difficult decision to leave the film and television industry in Los Angeles. The industry I had built my career in was contracting rapidly, and I knew I needed to pivot. What I didn't know was how long and winding the road ahead would be.

Since then, I've done whatever it takes to keep going. I delivered packages as a UPS holiday helper. I worked in warehouses. And in every spare moment, I poured my energy into building something meaningful: Meadow Mentor, a health app designed to help people with chronic GI conditions find relief through therapeutic diets. It's a project born from real need and real passion, and I believe it can change lives.

At the same time, I've been working relentlessly to break into the tech industry, pursuing roles in product management, product support, and AI agent engineering. I've applied to countless positions. I've reached out to CEOs and founders in my community. I've explored consulting for non-profits and health practitioners. And despite my best efforts, every door I've knocked on has remained closed.

It's been exhausting. It's been discouraging. And honestly, it's been one of the hardest seasons of my life. I've run out of unemployment, and currently as of March 25, 2026 don't have enough to pay my April rent.

The Turning Point

Recently, I started attending church. And something I'm learning there has changed my perspective: sometimes, the lesson isn't about trying harder. It's about learning to ask for help.

For so long, I wore my independence like armor. I told myself I should be able to handle everything alone. But I've come to realize that there's no shame in needing support, and that asking for help is an act of courage, not weakness.

This fundraiser is my step of faith.

What the Funds Will Cover

The money raised through this campaign will cover my essential living expenses for the next three months: rent, utilities, food, and basic needs.

Rent

Personal Loan & Credit Card Payments

Food & Essentials

Utilities & Phone (Elec, Water, Gas, Internet, Mobile)

Transportation (Gas)

Health (Dental)

Total Expenses

GoFundMe Platform & Transaction Fees

Campaign Goal

This breathing room will allow me to:

- Focus fully on my job search without the constant stress of wondering how I'll make it through the month

- Continue developing Meadow Mentor, which has the potential to help thousands of people managing chronic health conditions

- Invest in my well-being, so I can show up as my best self for whatever opportunity comes next

Three Ways You Can Help

I'm not just asking for financial support. If you're able to contribute in any of these ways, I would be deeply grateful:

1. Financial support: Any amount helps cover my bills and keeps me going during this transition

2. Connections: If you know of job opportunities in tech (product management, AI engineering, product support, or consulting), I would love an introduction

3. Mentorship: If you have experience in business, consulting, or the tech industry and are willing to share guidance, your insight could make all the difference

Closing: The Bigger Message

I'm sharing my story not just because I need help, but because I believe someone reading this needs to hear this too:

It's okay to ask for help. And it's not too late.

If my story encourages even one person to speak up about what they're going through, then this campaign has already succeeded. And if you're in a position to help, whether it's me or someone else in your life, I encourage you to reach out. You never know how much asking "What's been the hardest part of your week?" can mean to someone who's been carrying it all alone.

Thank you for reading. Thank you for caring. And thank you for being part of my story.

With gratitude, Reid