Hi, I’m Krisia Ayala — artist, educator at The City College of New York, and someone learning how to live with a chronic kidney condition called FSGS.

Earlier this year, I shared my diagnosis and asked for help during the most destabilizing phase of my life. Your support helped me cover urgent specialist visits, medications, and basic living expenses while I adjusted to a new medical reality. I am deeply grateful.

Since then, one thing has become clear: this isn’t a short-term crisis. FSGS is a chronic condition that requires ongoing monitoring, medication, and frequent appointments. While I am doing everything I can to manage my health, the financial impact continues.

Living in New York City while navigating chronic illness remains extremely difficult. My fixed costs haven’t changed:

Rent: $2,500/month

Utilities and essential services

Transportation to medical appointments

Groceries and necessities

Ongoing medical copays, labs, and prescriptions

Although I continue teaching, my condition limits my schedule and stamina. Reduced income combined with recurring medical expenses has made long-term stability challenging.

This follow-up campaign is about sustainability — not emergency panic, but maintaining housing, access to treatment, and space to heal without falling into deeper financial crisis.

Funds will go toward:

Ongoing nephrology and specialist visits

Lab work and diagnostic monitoring

Prescription medications

Insurance copays and deductibles

Rent and essential living expenses

Transportation to appointments

I remain committed to teaching, creating, and contributing to my community. Managing chronic illness is now part of my life, but it does not define the totality of who I am. With your support, I can focus on stabilizing my health and rebuilding strength.

If you can give or share this campaign, it truly helps. Thank you for standing with me.

With gratitude,

Krisia