Help Kyla Reunite with Her Family for the Holidays

Hi everybody!

My name is Kyla and I'm a disabled Black American, currently on an extended adventure in my adopted country of Belgium. I'm originally from Atlanta, Georgia, where my mom and brother still live. I've lived in Belgium for a bit over 10 years now. In 2021, after years of pain and confusion, doctors' appointments, research, and tests, I was diagnosed with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS). EDS is a genetic disorder that affects my connective tissue. It impacts my mobility (I need mobility aids and sometimes a wheelchair), my ability to work, and how I live my life in general. I've worked very hard to create a great medical support network that has given me part of my life back. I'm finally at the point where I can put down some roots and start building a life for myself.

One of my biggest dreams while living here has been to host my mom and brother for Christmas. Growing up, my mom always made Christmas such a magical time of the year for us, even if we were struggling financially. It's the time of the year that I associate most closely with spending time with friends and family, laughter, and a Dutch word that I love, gezelligheid. Gezelligheid is a feeling that is difficult to precisely capture in English, but it's closely related to "coziness." It's that feeling of being in the right place with the right people, the feeling of being together at ease, enjoying a mug of hot chocolate by a flickering fireplace.

My mom and brother have never been out of the country before, but now that they have finally secured their passports, the world is their oyster!

One of the biggest lessons in life that my mom has taught me is how to ask for help, but also how to accept help, even if it feels awkward or embarrassing. The truth is, I need my family with me this year. I miss my mom and brother so much, and would love nothing more than to pick them up at Brussels Airport and squeeze them in a huge hug.

So, I'm asking for help in getting them here for the holidays. My goal is €2000 to cover their plane tickets, insurance, and transportation. Anything that's leftover will go towards general trip expenses.

Thank you so much for reading my story! I definitely understand that times are tough for everyone right now. Every little bit counts! If you're unable to donate, even sharing my story can help. If you have connections to flight miles or something else that would help, feel free to reach out!

Thanks again!

-Kyla Robinson