<div>Hi friends,

</div>

<div>I’m sharing this today with courage and much vulnerability but also a deep belief in the compassion of community.

</div>

<div><br />

</div>

<div>Many of you know parts of my story, but not all. In 2008, I survived a gun violence incident that changed the course of my life. It wasn’t until 2019—eleven years later—that I was diagnosed with PTSD. While therapy has been incredibly healing, those undiagnosed years took a quiet, cumulative toll—on my health, and on my professional and financial footing.

</div>

<div><br />

</div>

<div>I’ve worked hard to keep going—advocating for others and using my experience to push for change. But right now, I’m in a tough season where life’s everyday expenses—housing, bills, and essentials—have outpaced my income. I find myself at a breaking point. The emotional labor of healing, paired with the reality of economic stress, has left me needing support.

</div>

<div><br />

</div>

<div>So I’m reaching out and asking: if you’re in a position to help, even a small amount would make a meaningful difference. Your support will give me the breathing room to stabilize, focus on my health, and continue showing up for those I love.

</div>

<div><br />

</div>

<div>I’m still standing. Still healing. Still hopeful. And I know I’m not alone (a friend I discussed my situation with this week made sure I knew that.).

</div>

<div><br />

</div>

<div>Thank you for being in my corner—whether you’re able to donate, share, offer employment, or simply send encouragement. It truly means the world.

</div>

<div><br />

</div>

<div>With love and gratitude,

</div>

<div> Mariah

</div>

Bernard Quell

Anonymous

Steve Spencer

Brian Daly

Corey Huffty

Daniel Israel

Wedad Rahman

Nancy Prager

Dennis McKelvey

Barbara Miles

Teresa Wildman-Wilke

Linda Brown

Sara Taylor

Candace Martin

Michelle Sabolich

Bridging the Gap — Help Mariah through a Tough Season

Bridging the Gap — Help Mariah through a Tough Season

Still $2,278 to go. Help us build momentum.