I've dealt with Bipolar Disease for decades now and have, for the most part, been very stable. However, in the last year or so, I've had an increasing number of severe anxiety attacks, which can be part of BP Disease. They are debilitating. After several months of discussing this with my doctors, it's becoming apparent that my environment is the trigger. I suffer from Sensory Sensitivity, which in turn triggers anxiety episodes. This is not uncommon in people who suffer from Bipolar.
Unfortunately, I live in a very rough urban neighborhood and it's been getting worse. Sirens daily, police choppers weekly, increased gang activity, and I've been accosted three times for being transgender. I just missed getting killed by someone who aimed their car at me at high speed. Missed me by 2 inches. Hate and prejudice against trans women is increasing. I'm tired. Rarely do I leave my apartment now. My doctor/therapist told me that I need to move to a different environment or this could get worse.
I have to go back to the woods. I feel safe there. Never once have I been anxious in the woods. In the mountains, the constant racing thoughts and background noise disappear. My mind is quiet and I am at peace. There is a very small mountain town that I know well and have visited often-- I once stayed for two months. It is the ideal place for me to live out the rest of my years. I've also discovered that I have relatives living less than an hour away from there and that's a huge benefit.
Here's the problem: I live a very meager lifestyle on a fixed income. I can afford to pay rent and my bills, but I live paycheck to paycheck and do not have the financial resources to move my dog and I 1000 miles north. So, I need to raise $4000. These costs are approximations and are based on gas being $7.00 a gallon.
One-Way Vehicle Rental & Gas, including food and a possible Motel6 for me and my dog: $1500.00
First and Last for Apartment: $2400.00. After the first month, the VA will be paying most of my rent.
All help is appreciated!
Gracie