Help Assist My Quality of Life with Basic Needs

Let me start by telling you a little bit about myself. My name is Lauren Gross. I'm 28 years old who was only suppose to live to be 3 or 4 according to the doctors. Why? Well, because I have a disability called Spinal Muscular Atrophy. Short version is SMA. It basically means that I can't move because none of my muscles work, including my lungs. I have to be on life support 24/7, otherwise I wouldn't be here. I also can't swallow, so I get all my nutrition through a g-tube. Nurses have to come into my home around the clock to care for me. I'm either confined to my bed or wheelchair due to lack of movement. I'm still kicking though (not literally. LOL) and will be 29 in July. Even though I have this disability, I still live life to the fullest. My disability hasn't allowed me to find a career yet, but I volunteer as an online listener when I can, which is pretty much like a counselor. My dream is to eventually become a social worker. People have been helping me all my life and I want to do the same. I don't have the finances to attend college yet though. I also volunteer in my friend's ministry to encourage people and let them know God has a plan for them no matter how hard life gets. I do all this through my eyegaze computer. All in all, I have been truly blessed despite my disability.

Now for the part where I need your help! This has been a difficult year for me. I've been hospitalized a few times for kidney stones and complications from them. Medical bills have been adding up. Due to my health and various other reasons, my dad has been having to take care of me more often as the only trained caregiver when we don't have a nurse. Even though insurance pays for 24/7 nursing, it isn't always available for various reasons. Since he has to take care of me, dad cannot sustain a weekly income. He is currently having to take care of me between 36 and 60 hours a week because nursing is not available. Right now, we are struggling to make payments and basic necessities. Including some things I need for medical or personal hygiene. Some of my medicines aren't covered by insurance or the state. They also don't pay for wipes, peri wash or any toiletries I need for my health and cleanliness. My ceiling lift that helps me get from my bed to wheelchair also needs new batteries. If I can't get in my wheelchair, it could cause bed sores.

In order to get to important doctor's appointment, I have to have a handicapped van with a lift system and restraints for my wheelchair. While we do have one, it's 9 years old and some parts are going out on it. We need to get it maintenanced, but we don't have the funds right now. I also like to get out of the house for mental health reasons. Maintenance to my van is a must!

As you can see, my life can be a crazy roller-coaster! I've had my ups and downs in life. Even though I have a more difficult life than most, I'm still beyond blessed. I wouldn't even be here if not for God, my family and friends. I'm in a rough season right now though. It's very hard for me to humble myself and ask for help. My dad and I have managed for years, but right now, we are just trying to stay above water. I need finances for basic necessities for my health and livelihood. If anyone can find it in their hearts to donate, I would truly be grateful! Please, any amount would help if you can! If you can't, I totally understand! Prayers are greatly appreciated too! Please also share with your family and friends! I would love to maintain and improve my quality of life with your help! God bless!