My name is Ryan. A few years ago, I was diagnosed with emphysema. Having this disease has not only impacted my overall health, it has also made it very difficult to both work and keep a job.

For the last 25 years, I have been a cook, server, and sometimes bartender in the restaurant industry. However, this disease makes me very fatigued, light-headed, dizzy, and of course, very winded.

I have tried to apply for assistance in the form of disability, but have been turned down several times now.

At this time, I am unemployed and hungry. I do not have the means to pay my bills this month, or my rent. Having no safety net, I fear that ending up homeless would be a death sentence for me. I'm begging you to throw me a bone, two bones, anything. Please help.