Dave's Foot Job Fund
I was born with a congenital defect where I am missing my right foot. All my life I have worn a prosthetic that I have kept hidden from the majority of people. The last one I got was 21 years ago when I was 16 and still growing. They are meant to be replaced every 5 years or so, but most would say it is a reasonably high cost to incur even that infrequently. Being self-employed means I am entitled to nothing on the HSE, and it wouldn't be covered by VHI or the like as it is a "pre-existing condition," hence why I am here.
On Paddy's Day this year I was involved in a motorcycle accident resulting in a broken leg. I'm basically healed now, but unfortunately remain on the crutches until I can get a new prosthetic foot. Due to loss of earnings and constant taxi costs to get around, etc, my lack of funds will not allow me to purchase a new one of my own volition, alas.
So far I have been on the crutches for 5 months and it is taking its toll on my back, pelvis, and shoulders. I can't continue on this way much longer before something gets badly damaged. I need help.
I have made necessary appointments to get the process of manufacturing a new prosthetic underway, but that can only happen if I have the money, or at least a good portion of it on the day of my first appointment in ~3 weeks, and the balance before I can receive delivery of it.
I'm not normally the type of person to go this route as I am a very independent individual, but I believe I have exhausted all my other options, as anything I own of value that I could sell, seems to either not have a strong resale value or nobody is interested.
I hate having to do this but needs must if I am to get back on my feet (pun 100% intended).