My Qrunner for Independence!

Hello, dear friends and compassionate souls,

I am reaching out with a heart full of hope and gratitude. For the past few years, I have been navigating the challenges of an unknown illness that has impacted nearly every aspect of my life. This illness is aggressively attacking multiple autonomic functions and organs. From debilitating heart issues and troubling blood oxygen levels to difficulties with my lymph nodes, gastrointestinal issues, tremors, muscle spasms, inflammation in my joints and tendons limiting my mobility, as well as rashes, hair loss, and extreme fatigue and lethargy, everyday feels like an uphill battle. Despite these challenges and the impact they have on my quality of life, I remain determined to find answers and reclaim my life by building the right care team to support my journey.

As a creative and ambitious dreamer, I have always found joy in creating—whether through painting, fashion design, hair and wig styling, beading, or traditional embroidery. However, this illness has forced me to confront a profound loss of self as I lost the ability to create through the mediums I've cultivated skill and passion for. I was last working as a lead in four departments at Mars, (the chocolate factory) when I was suddenly laid off before we were supposed to return from Christmas vacation. Its been over a year and a half since I've been able to work. From an active childhood filled with dance, longboarding, and recess races, I grew into an adventurous adult who loved hiking, skydiving, rock hunting, swimming, running, playing outside with my nieces, working, and doing pilates. However, my life has changed, and I now need assistance from others and mobility aids for simple tasks like showering, standing, and brushing my hair. It is not without difficulty but with the unwavering support of my loved ones, I’m learning to channel my energy into pursuing a new purpose while advocating for my health and adjusting to life with mobility aids. As I approach my 26th birthday, I face the daunting reality of losing my insurance, further complicating my journey. Like any 26-year-old, I have aspirations of becoming a homeowner, an adventurer, and am a strong believer in seeking discomfort. I do not plan on letting this illness stop me and that is why I humbly ask for your help.

This year, I have a birthday dream of getting closer to regaining my independence. My goal is to purchase a Qrunner, an enclosed mobility scooter that would empower me to navigate the world with greater ease and freedom. Because I cannot drive a car in my condition, this enclosed mobility scooter will give me a sense of normalcy and independence. I believe that by sharing my story and reaching out to those who understand the fight against autoimmune diseases, we can create a path of hope and resistance during such a challenging and life altering period.

I would be incredibly grateful for any support, whether through a donation or by simply sharing my GoFundMe page. Your direct support will gift me a higher quality of life and a sense of community and compassion. Thank you for taking the time to read my story. Your kindness and generosity mean the world to me and fuel my hope for a brighter, more independent future.

With all my gratitude, your friend,

Evangeline Avila

Socials where my gfm link is also available

IG: @notyourtigerlily

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