Hello. My name is Katie. I am writing to you with a heartfelt plea for assistance on behalf of my dear childhood friend, Mel. She is currently battling with the disabling effects of Long Covid. For over 3 years now, Mel has been facing tremendous hardship due to this chronic condition. Long Covid has left her incapacitated by debilitating fatigue, cognitive impairments/dysfunction, and a multitude of other symptoms that have significantly impacted her daily life and ability to earn a paycheck. Unfortunately, these health issues have resulted in a total loss of income, as she has been rendered disabled and unable to work in any capacity.

A little history: Mel and I have been best buddies since elementary school. We grew up together, and even as our adult lives took us in different directions, we have remained in constant contact and stayed close. Mel caught Covid in early 2020 and her health has steadily declined ever since. Before the pandemic, Mel was a full-time preschool teacher (Lead Infant/Toddler) for 20+ years. She worked at a small community-centered preschool that promoted long-term relationships and family-style values. She was laid off when the pandemic shutdown happened and was too ill to return to teaching by the time schools reopened. This was a huge loss for all involved as she was beloved by the children, the parents, and her coworkers alike. This was most devastating of all for Mel because she not only lost her lifelong career and sole source of income, but also the deep bonds and connections she had spent years cultivating. It has been heartbreaking to witness.

Fast forward to 2023: At the time that I write this, the doctors are still stumped by Long Covid, and there seem to be no viable treatments coming soon. (Google it. It’s a medical science nightmare!) Mel has seen countless doctors and specialists, to no avail. She has been following the media for current developments in Long Covid treatments/research, which are all inconclusive thus far. And, has been reckoning emotionally with the monumental grief associated with becoming disabled.

Being too unwell for gainful employment, she suffers tremendous insecurity regarding meeting her basic human needs. Recent rent hikes, rising food costs, and lack of resources have placed her in a dire financial situation. She is over a year into the process to obtain disability benefits, but the bureaucracy of that can take years. Mel needs our help now.

And so…I kindly request your support during this challenging time. Mel is not only fighting a physical battle but also an emotional one as she perpetually navigates the uncertainties of her health and financial instability. I believe that with the collective kindness and generosity of friends, family, and community members, we can help alleviate some of the burdens that Mel is facing. Any contribution, no matter how big or small, would go a long way in providing essential financial relief, allowing her to focus on her recovery without the added stress of financial strain.

Your generosity and support would mean the world to us. Witnessing my cherished friend struggle this way is agony. If you are unable to contribute financially at this time, your thoughts and prayers are also appreciated. And please share this message with your network, as wider awareness could help us reach (possibly surpass?) our goal and provide Mel with the assistance she urgently needs. Thank you for taking the time to read this message. Love and peace be with you all.