Teacher Needs Help to Move To NYC for Surgery & Employment.

Hello, Everyone:

First of all, please know that, although encouraged by friends to do this GoFundMe, it is a first for me, as I really like to take care of my own affairs. So, I am really grateful to all of you who donate and share this story.

I am changing the category to community from medical. My circumstances involve both a medical situation and one of an overwhelming need to meet life expenses. Over the past two months of the campaign, I have met with very generous help here from just a few people. Originally, I was hoping for donations of $5-10 from a few thousand people, so as not to break anyone's bank. It has not happened, yet.

During a chapter of unexpected hardship, I am now faced with Grade 4 Osteoarthritis (bone-on-bone condition) in both knees and need surgery on the right knee as soon as possible, followed by the procedure on the left knee. My surgeon at the Hospital for Special Surgery in New York City since 2018, will perform the procedures; after which he will also do a procedure on my right hip. Originally scheduled for August 12th, then rescheduled for September 16th, I now have to postpone my medical appointment for a second time, making it a third appointment with my surgeon in New York City, due to lack of funds to afford the transfer back to NYC and the traditional rentals.

I have experienced prolonged periods of unemployment since I moved to Los Angeles from New York in 2022, and do not have the funds needed for the expenses involved in my upcoming pre-op and post-op therapy. Although I got the prescribed credential for California State Ed, I have never been hired in my area of expertise, even after great interviews. The City of New York Schools have wanted to hire me and have sent me requests right up until this morning (9.5.23), but I do not have the funds to transfer back from Los Angeles.

I can work through pre-op (mainly weight-loss and muscle building) and the surgery can take place a few days before December break, giving me the two weeks to get set before returning to work. So, very little time will be needed to take off from work.

Your Generous Donations Will Be Used For The Following Expenses:

1. The Most Urgent Matter: Securing my airfare and temporary housing for the first few months, once I get to NYC. I do not qualify for the traditional NYC rental agreements at this time, given my lack of income.

2. Medical Expenses: My insurance covers 100% of the surgery. Copays are 20% for pre-op and post-op.. BUT: If employed in NYC, however, I would be able to cover this myself.

Your donation and sharing this campaign within your network renews my faith in humanity.

Your kindness and consideration will be reciprocated on my part when I am back on my feet and working again.

Gratefully,

Al (AJ)