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Introduction
Hello, my name is Raul. I live in Magnolia, TX. I am a former ordained Catholic priest and missionary. I did most of my ministry life in Central America. I am diagnosed with a mild cognitive impairment that affects my memory. I am retired, but I work full time in the local school district. Teachers and students call me "Mr. Raul."
My retirement income is insufficient to support myself and my daughter. In order to balance my budget, I work full time as a night shift custodian. The additional income helps me to cover personal expenses and utility bills.
Current Situation
Over the past several months, I have faced a set of challenges that have significantly impacted my financial stability. These difficulties come from medical complications of my left knee surgery, which resulted in unexpected medical costs, longer than expected recovery period, higher living expenses, and a big gap in my income source due to wage losses. I lost my job during this time. While I have made every effort to manage my budget with prudence, the realities of my current situation are such that I am struggling to meet basic needs, including rent, utilities, groceries, and transportation.
At present, my monthly expenses are carefully minimized, with only the essential costs accounted for. However, without reliable income and limited access to savings or alternative support, the prospect of sustaining myself through the next few months has become increasingly daunting. I am actively seeking employment and looking for other ways to improve my financial standing, but these efforts will take time to bear fruit. Until then, I am in urgent need of financial assistance to cover the basics.
Essential Expenses
To provide a clear picture of my situation, I would like to share a summary of my monthly expenses:
- Rent ($925): This is my largest recurring expense. I am committed to maintaining punctual payments to avoid any disruption to my housing.
- Utilities ($450): Basic services such as electricity, water, and internet are vital for daily life and necessary for my ongoing job search and personal well-being.
- Groceries ($300): I have streamlined my food budget to focus on nutritious and cost-effective meals, but even so, these expenses quickly add up. I have access to groceries from the local food pantry once a month.
- Transportation ($150): While I do my best to minimize the use of car, some travel is unavoidable for job interviews, errands, and essential appointments.
- Baylor St Luke's Medical Group ($1,300): Knee surgery hospital copayments.
- Health-related post-surgery costs ($500): Some ongoing medical needs, prescriptions and physical rehab sessions require regular outlays, which are critical for a complete recovery after the surgery.
Taken together, these expenses amount to a manageable sum under normal circumstances, but in the absence of a steady income, each payment has become a source of anxiety and stress. I have already reduced discretionary spending, postponed non-essential purchases, and sought out community resources wherever possible.
Impact of your support
Financial support, even in modest amounts, would have a profound and immediate impact on my life. By covering the essential expenses over the next two to three months, I would be able to maintain stability and focus on moving forward without the constant stress of financial insecurity. Your generosity would not only help me navigate this difficult period but also strengthen my resolve to live independently for as long as possible. I pray that God grants me enough health and time to see my daughter graduating from high school and to start college.
Conclusion: Expressing ongoing gratitude for your support, both in words and actions. It is not easy to ask for help, especially when so many are facing challenges of their own. I am deeply grateful for any consideration you can give this request. Whether you are able to contribute financially, share resources, or simply offer encouragement, your support means more than words can express.
Love & Prayers: Lucia Nicole & Mr. Raul
Organizer
