Getting old is not for the faint of heart. I never thought I would be in this position, not having a job. But, at the age of 68, after all the job applications and interviews and "thanks-but-no-thanks" emails, I have been unable to land a job. Background work has dried up. I've auditioned but have not landed a commercial in a year. Savings have been depleted, and so here we are.

The last couple of years have been challenging. I wrote an article in Substack about all that has been going on, from depression and anxiety to breast cancer with its surgery and subsequent recovery.

https://open.substack.com/pub/eldacarmona/p/two-truths-and-a-lie?utm_source=share&utm_medium=android&r=nd4vu

Depression has affected me the most. The cancer diagnosis, surgery, and recovery were a walk in the park compared to how depression has taken hold and affected my daily life. Some days I jump out of bed, ready to take on the day. Other days, it's all I can do to get out of bed. And that's with therapy...

I understand that the current economy has caused hardship for many. I've been fortunate that I've managed to at least pay rent with my monthly Social Security, but rent is scheduled to increase in a couple of months and my Social Security will not. I had considered DoorDash and Uber, but my poor car is in need of its own maintenance.

I've never been one to ask for help. I usually managed to figure things out, but I am at the end of my rope. I have managed to tie a knot at the end, but it is fraying.

I have already asked family for assistance and they have helped, but they're dealing with similar hardships, so I am now reaching out to you. If you're unable to donate, that's okay. Your prayers would be appreciated.

Thank you for reading this far. Thank you for whatever you can donate. Thank you for passing this on. Thank you.

The photo is from a visit to friends in Pacific Grove, near a place near and dear to my heart... One day I'll go back.