Hi everyone, my name is Anne. I am a graduate student at Ohio University, preparing to begin my thesis and working toward graduating in May. I study Journalism, and I have always taken my education seriously. I am usually a straight-A student, and I’ve been doing everything I can to maintain that standard despite the challenges I’m currently facing.

Unexpected expenses, rising living costs, and medical needs have all hit me at once. I currently have a balance owed to the university that is preventing me from registering for next semester, and I’m also trying to catch up on rent so I can stay securely housed while I complete my degree.

I also have hypothyroidism, a chronic condition that requires continuous monitoring and regular bloodwork. I urgently need updated tests and follow-up care, but my insurance does not cover these services where I live, and the closest provider within my plan is located out of state. This makes accessing proper care extremely difficult and expensive.

For those who may not be familiar, unmonitored hypothyroidism can cause:

• Extreme fatigue

• Brain fog and difficulty concentrating

• Memory issues

• Slow processing and trouble focusing

• Depression or mood shifts

• Cold intolerance and muscle weakness

These symptoms directly affect my ability to study, work, and write my thesis. When hormone levels are unbalanced, staying alert, keeping up with readings, and completing assignments becomes extremely challenging. As someone who has always aimed for academic excellence, this has been especially difficult.

Cold weather makes it even harder. Winters in Ohio can be very harsh, and waiting at bus stops, walking long distances to class, and moving between buildings in freezing temperatures can be physically draining. Because hypothyroidism causes sensitivity to cold, even short exposure can worsen fatigue, stiffness, and pain. Without proper treatment, functioning in winter conditions becomes even more difficult.

I’m asking for support to help cover:

• My university balance so I can register and continue my thesis

• Rent that I’ve fallen behind on

• Medical tests and treatment for my hypothyroidism

• Basic living and academic needs during my final semester

It is hard for me to ask for help, but I don’t want financial hardship or untreated medical needs to stop me from completing my thesis and graduating in May. Any amount you can give — no matter how small — truly helps. If you cannot donate, sharing this link would mean so much.

Thank you for reading my story and supporting me through this season.

—Anne