I never imagined I would be writing this.

Asking for help is one of the hardest things I’ve ever done, but right now I don’t have another option.

I am an international medical student studying abroad, and becoming a doctor has been my lifelong dream. I’ve worked relentlessly to get here — years of sacrifice, countless hours of studying, living far away from family, and pushing myself through exhaustion because I believe deeply in this calling. I am doing well academically, and my goal has always been simple: finish medical school and serve others as a physician.

Until now, I have paid everything out of pocket — tuition, rent, food, and basic living expenses — all in U.S. dollars. I have taken on this burden without loans, without financial backing, and without safety nets. I believed if I worked hard enough, I could make it through.

But I’m struggling now — more than I ever have.

Tuition continues to rise. Living costs are overwhelming. I’m doing everything I can, but I have reached a point where effort alone is no longer enough. Without financial assistance, I may be forced to pause or abandon my education — something that would be devastating after coming this far.

This is not about luxury or comfort.

This is about survival.

This is about staying enrolled.

This is about finishing what I started.

Every dollar raised will go directly toward:

Medical school tuition

Rent and essential living expenses

Allowing me to remain focused on my studies instead of worrying about whether I can stay enrolled

If you are able to give — even a small amount — please know that it truly matters. If you cannot donate, sharing this page means more than you know.

I am not asking because I want to.

I am asking because I have to.

Your generosity could be the reason I’m able to continue my education and one day give back as a doctor who understands struggle, sacrifice, and compassion firsthand.

Thank you for reading. Thank you for caring. And thank you for helping me keep this dream alive.

With gratitude and humility,

Lay