A Fresh Start in Chicago – Asking for a Little Help ❤️

Hi friends,

I never imagined I’d be in a position where I’d need to start a GoFundMe, but life has thrown me a few too many curveballs this past year, and I could really use some support as I try to start fresh.

In April 2024, I was laid off from my role as a healthcare recruiter. Since then, finding another stable position in this tough market has been incredibly difficult. I’ve taken on teaching gigs here and there and started working overnights at a local gas station last October just to get by. It hasn’t been easy, but I’ve been doing what I can to stay afloat.

On top of that, I’ve had to deal with expensive car repairs—$1,500 for brakes and $1,300 for a gasket pump—wiping out any savings I had. Even while working nights for minimum wage, it often felt like I was barely keeping my head above water.

In January, I was grateful to finally land another remote role and thought I was finally turning a corner—but unfortunately, I was let go again on April 2, 2025. It’s been a tough pill to swallow.

With my family planning to move out of California soon, it feels like it’s time for a big change for me too. I’ve been thinking about Ernie and I moving to Chicago for a long time—it feels like the right place to reset and rebuild. But after the year I’ve had, I could really use a little help getting there.

If you're able to contribute or even just share this with others, it would mean more than I can express. Every little bit helps me take this next step toward stability and a fresh start.

Thank you for reading, for caring, and for being part of this journey with me.

With gratitude,

Grobbie

How the Funds Will Be Used:

I’m aiming to raise $7,500 to cover the essential costs of moving across the country and getting back on my feet. Here’s a breakdown of where the funds will go:

Car Repairs (already paid) – $2,500

(Brakes + gasket pump that wiped out my savings)

Rental Truck + Moving Expenses – $2,000

(For transporting my belongings from California to Chicago)

Gas for Cross-Country Drive – $600

Hotel Stays Along the Way – $800

(For a safe place to rest during the multi-day drive)

Food During the Move – $400

First Month Essentials in Chicago – $1,200

(Groceries, transit, basic setup until I’m working again)

Every contribution, no matter how small, helps make this fresh start possible. Thank you so much for your kindness and support ❤️