My name is Diana, and I am a 55-year-old woman who has faced more than my share of challenges in recent years. After surviving domestic violence, I underwent four surgeries in 2025 for cervical cancer. Just as I was beginning to recover, I was attacked at a Metra stop, which led to a three-level spinal fusion and a foot fusion. With the support of my family, I managed to get my own apartment and start rebuilding my life. I found work as a traveling home health nurse near St. Louis, and my son helped me get a new car so I could get to my patients.

Unfortunately, my journey took another difficult turn. In my second week on the job, I was in a terrible car accident while on my way to drop off blood work for a patient. My car went airborne and crashed into a muddy embankment. I was unconscious, but thankfully, my car’s emergency system called for help and I was rushed to the ER. I suffered a concussion, multiple contusions, and a serious back injury. Soon after, I began experiencing syncopal episodes and vomiting, which led to a month-long hospitalization. I was diagnosed with refractory gastroparesis, a form of stomach paralysis, and had to undergo an emergency sleeve gastrectomy, losing 90% of my stomach.

Now, I am home but penniless, unable to work, and at risk of homelessness. My car remains in St. Louis, and I am struggling to pay for rent and utilities while I apply for disability. My family has done all they can, but their resources are stretched thin. I am reaching out for help to cover my basic needs and get my car back, so I can have a chance to rebuild my life and not return to a homeless shelter.

I have always been community-focused, especially during my years in Evanston, Illinois, and I know the power of people coming together. If you are able to help, your support will mean the world to me and give me hope to keep moving forward, no matter how tough things get.