<div>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.
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<div>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. 
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<div>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.
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<div>Living in New York City while navigating chronic illness remains extremely difficult. My fixed costs haven’t changed:
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<div>Rent: $2,500/month
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<div>Utilities and essential services
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<div>Transportation to medical appointments
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<div>Groceries and necessities
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<div>Ongoing medical copays, labs, and prescriptions
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<div>Although I continue teaching, my condition limits my schedule and stamina. Reduced income combined with recurring medical expenses has made long-term stability challenging.
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<div>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.
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<div>Funds will go toward:
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<div>Ongoing nephrology and specialist visits
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<div>Lab work and diagnostic monitoring
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<div>Prescription medications
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<div>Insurance copays and deductibles
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<div>Rent and essential living expenses
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<div>Transportation to appointments
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<div>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.
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<div>If you can give or share this campaign, it truly helps. Thank you for standing with me.
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<div>With gratitude,
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<div>Krisia
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Rafa Texi

Chronic but Still Creating: Living with FSGS in NYC

Still $5,520 to go. Help us build momentum.