Why I’m Asking for Help

My name is John Young. I am a 60-year-old Iraq War veteran and am rated 100% disabled through the VA. I rely almost entirely on my VA compensation to survive. I also live with severe ADHD and PTSD, and in 2016 I survived a cardiac arrest that permanently changed my health. As a result, I was taken off the ADHD medications that allowed me to function effectively and am now being treated for high blood pressure.

The last three years have been especially difficult. In an effort to rebuild some stability and purpose, my son suggested we start a small side business together. It gave me something to focus on and helped pull me out of a deep depression. After spending several years carefully rebuilding my credit, I was approved for a loan, and we purchased a 2017 Dodge truck from a small local dealership.

Almost immediately, problems began to surface. When we tried to contact the dealership for help, there was no response. We eventually drove to the location and found it boarded up and abandoned. Soon after, we discovered there were issues with the vehicle’s title. I began a long and complicated process with the Arizona DMV to obtain a bonded title so the truck could be legally registered and insured. A criminal complaint was filed, and AZDOT detectives opened an investigation.

At the same time, mechanical issues with the truck continued to mount. The warranty, now worthless, forced my son an I to pay for all repairs. What was supposed to be a fresh start quickly became an overwhelming financial burden. I currently owe $10,000 on a truck that is now inoperable without thousands of dollars in repairs that I simply do not have.

I also attempted to revive my background in photography and video editing — work I am trained in and capable of doing despite my disabilities. Additionally, I own a 2009 Crown Victoria police vehicle that I hoped to have detailed and rent out to film and television productions as another source of income. Unfortunately, due to mounting debt and lack of funds, both plans are now on hold.

At this point, I am buried in debt beyond my ability to manage on a fixed income. The truck is unusable, the police vehicle cannot be made rentable, and the creative work I hoped would help stabilize my situation is stalled.

Funds raised through this campaign would go toward:

Paying down or resolving the remaining truck loan

Addressing necessary repairs or legal title costs

Helping me stabilize financially and regain a small measure of independence

I am not asking for a handout — I am asking for help getting back on my feet after a series of events beyond my control. Any support, whether through donations or simply sharing this page, means more than I can adequately express.

Thank you for taking the time to read my story.