Facing the Storm: My Journey as a Single Mom in Need of Help

Hi, my name is Karina Alfonso, and I am a single mother to three wonderful kids. I work as a Realtor in the Central Florida area, and I also take on additional roles as a mobile notary and tax preparer to provide for my family. I tend to keep my personal life private, but today I am reaching out to my community because, as we all know, times have been tough for many of us.

Usually, I manage everything that life throws at me with resilience and strength—like a superhero. But even superheroes need help sometimes. I want to share a bit of my story to explain why I’ve created this GoFundMe account, and to ask for your support, whether that’s through donations, sharing this post, or simply keeping my family in your prayers. I am grateful.

What began as a routine brake job on my car has spiraled into a significant financial burden and my worst nightmare coming into reality. Everything that could go wrong did go wrong, and the costs are now beyond my ability to manage. This year has been particularly challenging for my real estate career, which, like many in the industry, has faced its fair share of difficulties. Which has already created a hit in my financials this year and has made it difficult to save especially for this type of costs unexpectedly, Without my car, I’m unable to provide for my children, and everything in our lives is affected. As their sole provider, my vehicle is the foundation of my ability to support us.

Life is not easy for us. As a single mother of three unique and amazing children, I face daily challenges that many may not see on the outside. Also, one of the major reasons why it is difficult for me to work a W2 job. Mental health is a daily struggle in my home, particularly anxiety and depression, are a part of our reality, especially for my girls who have each faced their own trauma's. My oldest has made significant progress this year, but the journey takes time and patience. My middle child, who has also been diagnosed with Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) and Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD), in the mix of anxiety and depression. Also has her own challenges, Her healing journey has been more challenging and definitely not for the weak to say the least. Which requires a lot of patience, and flexibility on my side. Honestly the true reason of why I decided to become my own employer.

I know that many people wonder why I can’t just get a traditional job. The truth is, I embraced a hustler's mentality of actually being my own employer in 2018 when I realized I needed a flexible schedule to accommodate the challenges in my personal life with my girls and work life, As it was affecting my work life and finances. I took the chance always believing that I can find a way through any situation and I got this and God has been good to us always, and we have been ok. unfortunately since it has always mostly been my kids and I, a very small group of family members and a handful of very close friends which have become family and have embraced my kids and I into their village. I am learning how important it is to have a village and right now, I need to admit I need to expand my village and ask for help when needed.

Admitting that I need help is not easy for me. I’ve always maintained a positive outlook, believing that God has a plan, and I strive to learn from every challenge. I’ve tried all other options before reaching out here and creating this post, but I find myself in a position where I need to be honest about my circumstances and ask for help.

I understand we are all going through our own struggles, If you can’t donate that's ok I would deeply appreciate it if you could share my story or keep us in your prayers. I am genuinely grateful for any support, whether it’s financial or emotional. I pray blessings upon all who read this, share it, or offer positive thoughts. May God bless you and your families abundantly.

Thank you for your kindness and support.

— Karina Alfonso