My name is Heather, and asking for help is something I never wanted to have to do. My friends have encouraged me to share my story, and while I feel humbled and a bit afraid of what others might think, I am in need for support. I take pride in being a hard worker, whether driving for Uber, working as a photographer, cosmetologist, customer service or volunteering in my community. In late 2024, I left those jobs for a new opportunity that promised stability, but by January, it was clear those promises wouldn’t be kept. I found myself searching for work, a place to live, and a way to climb out of the hole I was in.

After being hired for a new job, I fell seriously ill with Covid, the flu, and laryngitis, losing my voice for weeks. Then, tragedy struck my family, and I had to rush from Wisconsin to Georgia for a funeral. I was in an unhealthy relationship during this time, and in March, I was in a car accident that totaled my vehicle and forced me into more debt. I had to withdraw from college and struggled to keep up with work as well as with family, and community commitments. In June, I had major surgery, which put me out of work again, and by July, I lost my job. I tried to regroup by driving for Uber and working as a caregiver, but ongoing health issues led to multiple hospitalizations and another job loss. In August, not only did I get hit with another HUGE loss of a loved one, I was also, and finally, diagnosed with Adenomyosis and now need a hysterectomy.

The pain and discomfort from my diagnosis make daily life unpredictable and unreliable. I’ve tried everything to stay afloat—selling house plants and baked goods at farmers markets, reviving my donation-only face painting business, working odd jobs for community businesses and volunteering for civic programs. In September, my car’s transmission began failing, and by October, I learned repairs would cost more than the car is worth. I’ve barely been able to drive for Uber and now work part-time as a substitute teacher, which is rewarding but not enough to cover my bills. I was recently dropped from BadgerCare and food share for making just a little too much. My medications for various health issues are expensive while monthly bills continue to add up.

It’s incredibly hard to ask for help, but I am at a point where I have no other option. I am told it’s brave to be humble and that honesty will help others connect. If I can get back on my feet and back on the road, I can continue my community work and live comfortably enough to afford health care and groceries again. I apologize for any surprise this may bring—I’ve tried desperately to hold it all together for over a year. Thank you for reading and for hearing me.