Asking for help is not my strong suit, but Cancer happens..

Hi, my name is Mindy, I'm 42 and I am a single mother recently diagnosed with Non-Hodgkins Follicular Lymphoma. My Cancer is considered Stage 4 because it has spread from my lymph nodes to my bone marrow and salivary gland. First, I would like to add that I hate asking people for help. This is something I rarely do, but sometimes life just gets in the way of living. I'm a very independent person and like to do most things for myself. I love to bake and fix things, DIY projects, jigsaw puzzles, painting, mowing the lawn, collecting rocks and crystals, watching the wild birds, gardening, and animals, especially my pet parrot.

I was working full-time in a Non-profit Coffeehouse/Boutique as a Kitchen Manager when I was diagnosed, at the end of last year. It was a very rewarding job as it provided a program for young adults with disabilities or neurodiversity's to have employment and social opportunities. My problems started when I had to ask my boss to alter my schedule slightly due to my illness. Early mornings are difficult for me, so I asked if I could come in 30 mins later. After that, my hours slowly started to get reduced and then my weekend hours were taken away. By January, I was only scheduled 4 days a week and about 20 hours, with strict orders not to go over that. Needless to say, I started to get behind on my bills, especially my mortgage.

As I said, I am a single mom and I own my own home, which I attained by myself, after moving here from NJ. I left NJ to build a better life for my son and I, getting away from his father and his drug problems. We lived with my parents for a couple years, long enough to save for a down payment on a house for the two of us. My son's father eventually left NJ and ran off to Florida, evading his legal obligations and owes over $20,000 in child support.

In March I had to take a break from working because it got too difficult to do my job. The standing for long periods of time, constant bending and repetitive use of my hands and arms, all in a hot environment, became unbearable. My last day of work I nearly passed out and had to leave early. I'd like to add that I also have severe cervical stenosis, which causes my hands/fingers to go numb with overuse, among other things. Last month I found out that I have Cervical Cancer also, so add that to the list.

Sorry, this is getting too long. I can't help it, I'm a very honest and open person. So, I'm here asking for help during this challenging time. I applied for SSI/SSDI in April, but that takes about 6 months, if they even approve me on the first time. I've already exhausted my CT Continuous Paid Leave benefits and my boss has since replaced me. My mortgage is behind and I applied for Mortgage Assistance, but my only option is to do a "Modification", which doubles my interest rate and raises my monthly payment over $600. When I already couldn't afford my original payment. If I can find a way to pay the balance due, then my mortgage will be considered current and they will stop foreclosure proceedings.

PLEASE help me keep this house that I've worked so hard to get and keep for 7 1/2 years. I'm only asking those who can spare the money. Even if it's only a few dollars. I know times are tough for everyone. Any help would be greatly appreciated. Thank you so much for reading my story and possibly supporting my son and I, if you have the financial ability.

Thank You,

Mindy

Sincerely,

[Your Name