Hi everyone,

My name is Audrienne Kalm, and I’ll be turning 35 this coming March. I’m sharing my story with humility and hope as I continue rebuilding my life after surviving some incredibly difficult times.

In November 2023, I lost my left arm to an amputation caused by complications from IV drug use, specifically xylazine. Shortly after, I went into septic shock, which nearly took my life and resulted in me needing a colostomy bag for over a year — something I was thankfully able to have reversed this past January. Surviving this has changed me forever, and I live each day learning how to navigate life with a permanent disability while staying grateful for a second chance.

Since getting out of the hospital, I have taken real steps to improve my life. I moved out of a bad living situation, removed myself from toxic environments, and have been rebuilding relationships with my family and friends. Despite having an upper limb deficiency, I just got a job in data entry, which is a big step in the right direction for me. At this point, having a car is a necessity so I can reliably get to and from work. It’s taken me a while to get here, but I’m finally moving forward and just want to keep going in the right direction. Since transportation is my biggest barrier, I’m asking for help to purchase a reliable but inexpensive vehicle so I can travel to work.

I celebrated two years clean December 12, and I remain committed to my recovery every single day. I know my past was shaped by my own mistakes, and I take responsibility for that — but I am working hard to build a healthier, stable future and to be a positive, functioning member of society.

Any donation, share, or words of encouragement would mean more than I can express. Over time, I hope to reach my next goal of getting my own apartment and continuing to build a life rooted in growth and purpose.

Thank you so much for taking the time to read my story and for showing empathy and support.

Warmly,

Audrienne Kalm