My name is Alana, and I'm a single mom and public school educator doing my best to provide for my six-year-old child on the Autism Spectrum. Since my divorce was finalized in 2023, the financial repercussions have been relentless. This year alone, I've faced a series of unexpected emergencies: a trip to the ER for several illnesses, identity theft that left my bank account compromised, and car repairs I could barely afford. My child needs time sensitive dental care and I'm unable to pay upfront, as required by her established dentist's office. Our insurance will help after the claim is filed, but I currently can't pay upfront.

My main concern is giving my child a stable, healthy environment when she is with me during our 50/50 shared custody. When I was sick, it was even harder to care for her, especially since she had Strep first, though thankfully her symptoms were mild. I do everything I can to support her needs—making doctor and dentist appointments, filling prescriptions, and ensuring she has appropriate clothing and shoes. I follow all occupational, physical, and speech therapy recommendations to help her thrive. The financial burden makes it so much harder to give my child what she deserves, which is so much more than I can provide right now. I go to therapy myself to learn better coping skills so my child doesn't see the stress and grief I'm working through. My child is my priority, and I am determined to keep her safe, healthy, and in a consistently supportive environment. I supply the love, nurturing, and play, but there's so much hidden stress when finances are so tight they're about to break.

The challenges keep piling up. Paying for after school care has fallen to me. My car, a 2007 Honda with 240,000 miles, needs new tires and rear brakes soon after the February break down—repairs I can't afford. My wages are being garnished due to a joint tax return mistake, and I'm struggling to keep up with minimum payments on credit cards and legal fees from the divorce. I still owe my lawyer and my ex-husband. As a teacher, I won't be paid over the summer, which makes the situation even more precarious.

I'm reaching out because I want to provide for my child and regain some stability. If I can get help with my child's dental care and some of these urgent bills, I believe I can start to get back on my feet. Any support, no matter the amount, would mean the world to us. Thank you for reading our story and considering a donation to help us move toward a more secure future.