Friends,

Over the past year, I slowly set aside about $3K of my own money to attend Y’allFest representing Chronically Booked— to bring bookish content to the podcast and our community. Last year, I couldn’t attend due to an emergency gallbladder surgery, but this year my body has (so far) decided to cooperate. You can only remove so many organs, after all…this is not a challenge, body.

The event planners graciously granted me a media pass, and I was so excited to finally go. But this week, I was laid off. My insurance is tied to my employment, and as many of you know, I’m chronically ill and rely on several very expensive medications just to live. Because of this, I’ll need to repurpose the funds I’d saved for Y’allFest toward immediate medical needs.

So, I’m turning to this amazing community for help. I’m asking for support to crowdfund the trip so I can still represent the chronically ill and disabled community at Y’allFest — not just by attending, but by creating content and visibility for Chronically Booked.

I completely understand that there are major hardships happening right now — from the government shutdown to delayed SNAP benefits — and if you can help someone who needs essentials covered, please do that first. But if you’re in a position to also donate to this cause, it would mean the world to me. For those living with chronic illness or disability, you know that simply being able to attend an event can feel like a victory — being there as a representative and creator would be an absolute triumph.

I’ve provided a transparent breakdown of expenses:

    •    We plan to drive (not fly) to lower my infection risk, and mileage is calculated based on our hybrid vehicle.

    •    Hotel costs are based on our pre-booked rate.

    •    Food costs are estimated for me only (I didn’t include my husband — though he’ll be carrying the podcast equipment, so maybe that counts as labor).

Thank you in advance for your kindness, support, and for helping make this possible. ❤️