Help Me Build a Future for My Son Amid Health Struggles

Hi, my name is Nicholas, and I am the sole custodial parent of a sweet 4-year-old boy. Life has thrown us more challenges than most, but I’m determined to overcome them for my son’s sake.

I have Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS), a rare and incurable genetic condition that affects connective tissues throughout my body. Over the years, my condition has worsened dramatically. I’ve experienced frequent dislocations, torn muscles, and broken bones from seemingly simple actions. I’ve dislocated my wrist while washing my hands, broken bones while yawning, and suffered both muscle tears and broken bones during light attempts to exercise.

Recently, my health has plummeted. Tasks I used to handle with ease now leave me completely drained, and even sweeping a small area feels like an impossible challenge. My resting heart rate is 140 outside of bed, spiking to over 200 with minimal activity. I continue to work because I have no other choice, but my body is no longer able to keep up.

On top of this, I’ve faced difficulties finding supportive opportunities, which is why I’m focusing on self-employment through reopening my Etsy store—a venture that was highly successful in the past.

My Plan to Keep Moving Forward:

I’ve developed a clear plan to create a better future for my son and me:

1. Disability Benefits: This is my long-term solution, but the process can take over a year.

2. Etsy Store: I’m reopening my successful Etsy store, where I plan to sell costumes, leather goods, embroidered patches, props, bags, tools, and more. With the right support, I can make this a reality again.

While my condition is incurable and will gradually worsen over time, I’m focused on creating stability for my son and ensuring a bright future for him. I also want to make my time with my son as meaningful as possible. In the very possible event that my condition worsens significantly, I want to ensure I have something lasting and meaningful to leave for him.

With your help, I can:

• Transition out of my current job before my health forces me to quit entirely.

• Build a stable income that allows me to provide for my son.

• Create a lasting legacy of stability for my family.

How You Can Help:

Every donation will go toward purchasing the tools and equipment I need to relaunch my Etsy store. If you’re unable to donate, sharing my story with others would mean the world to me.

I’ll Keep You Updated:

I promise to keep everyone involved with regular updates, from launching the store to achieving financial stability.

This is my chance to create a better future for my son despite these challenges. Thank you for taking the time to read our story. Your kindness and generosity mean everything to us.