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About Me
Hi there, and thank you for your interest in my fundraising campaign.
My name is Greg (they/them), and I am a non-binary, queer person living in Washington State since 2023. I am a recent burn survivor on a journey of recovery after a period of general instability and uncertainty. After losing my employment and housing within the past year, I am seeking the help of my local community and GoFundMe's audience to regain my footing and improve my circumstances. I hope to move forward by expressing my vulnerability and sharing my cause for need.
My Story
My story begins last October, when I lost my job. I found ways to support myself while I searched for new work in my field—enrolled in unemployment benefits, sought out public and LGBTQ+ assistance programs, and withdrew my 401K savings. Money was tight, but I was determined to get through it.
Then something unplanned happened. In February, a grease fire broke out in my kitchen while I made dinner. In a panicked state, I moderately burned myself (13% TBSA) attempting to extinguish the flame. Daily wound care, in-patient treatment, and surgery followed. I can't thank the healthcare professionals at the UW Medicine Regional Burn Center, volunteers at the Phoenix Society of Burn Survivors, friends, and my parents enough for helping me get through those 5 painful weeks.
My state unemployment benefits exhausted in mid-March. Unable to afford my housing in Seattle, I moved to Auburn, WA in April. I found new work and purchased a used car to commute. Unfortunately, I did not meet expectations for the role and my contract ended in July. I am currently applying and interviewing for new roles within and outside of my prior experience, in spite of current US labor market and industry-specific trends.
That brings us to the present moment - and how you can help me!
About this Fundraising Campaign
After a series of rapid and significant setbacks and personal hardships have left me in a state of crisis, I am unable to meet my current financial obligations and catch up without aid. I am seeking financial assistance through community fundraising to help me overcome my difficult situation.
The funds raised will help me complete the following connected objectives:
- Stabilize my housing
- Afford basic necessities
- Catch up on accumulated debt
- Enroll in professional retraining or certification programs
- Maintain reliable transportation
- Reduce mental fatigue
- Secure greater employment opportunities
This will give me a path forward toward a better future.
Initial Fundraising Goals
- Establish a 3-4 month housing fund ($3,000-$4,000 USD) to prevent subsequent relocation.
- Afford basic necessities ($500-1000)
- Afford professional certifications or educational enrollment fees ($500 USD).
- Catch up on deferred debt ($2,000 USD).
- Maintain and keep my personal vehicle insured ($500-$2000 USD).
Closing
Whether you are able to directly donate or not - thank you for taking time out of your day to support me. I plan to write personalized messages to donors through this platform.
I'd also like to thank my friends, family, and community for helping me cope. The time I spend with you gives me an immeasurable sense of joy and meaning.
Organizer
