Over the past several months, my family has faced an unexpected and overwhelming hardship. I never imagined I would be in a position where I needed to ask for help, but right now I’m doing everything I can to keep my family afloat and provide stability for my children.

I spent many years working in special education with Boerne ISD — work that I truly loved and poured my heart into. Due to a lapse in my aide certification, I was unexpectedly forced to resign, despite my willingness to immediately correct the issue. I spent months advocating for myself, including taking my case all the way to the superintendent, but no support or resolution was offered. This was especially painful given the district’s ongoing need for special education staff and my long-standing dedication to the students I served.

I was later told I could return as a substitute, only to be denied again and told there were “too many applicants,” which does not reflect the current staffing reality. Losing my position so abruptly — after years of commitment — was devastating both emotionally and financially.

I am a mother of three, including a child with significant special needs. My youngest is severely autistic and requires consistent care and support. I’m incredibly grateful for the teachers who show up for her each day, but balancing her needs with the demands of work has been incredibly challenging. I’ve applied for SSI for her, but like many families know, that process takes time — time we simply don’t have when bills continue to pile up.

I’ve done everything I can to keep us going. I took a job at Dollar Tree, picked up delivery work with Favor, and continue to push forward even when things feel overwhelming. Still, with the rising cost of living, utilities, gas, insurance, and basic necessities, we’ve fallen behind. The holidays were especially difficult, and I’m incredibly thankful for my mom and grandmother, who helped us however they could.

I know there are so many families facing hardships, and the last thing I want is to come across as “poor me.” I truly try to live with gratitude, positivity, and kindness — even during the hardest seasons. My children are happy, healthy, loved, and involved in their school community. They have friends, laughter in their lives, and a sense of normalcy that I work hard every day to protect.

This fundraiser isn’t about pity. It’s about getting through a difficult chapter while continuing to show up for my family with strength and hope. Sometimes even the most resilient people need a little support to stay standing. I believe deeply in paying kindness forward, and I look forward to the day I’m able to do that again in a bigger way.

I’m hopeful that once the new year begins and my husband starts his new job, we’ll finally be able to regain stability. Until then, we’re doing our best to keep our heads above water.

Any support — whether through donating or prayers — truly means more than I can express. Thank you for taking the time to read our story and for being part of our hope during this season.

With gratitude,

Kayla