For the past three years, I’ve been fighting to rebuild my life after leaving an emotionally abusive relationship and dealing with ongoing harassment from my former chief at the job I once loved. During this time, I’ve also been raising my child with special needs while my own health has declined. I’m currently experiencing severe muscle weakness that’s still being diagnosed, and some days I struggle just to walk without falling.

On top of everything, transportation has been my biggest obstacle to staying employed. I’ve spent years trying to keep an unreliable car running, replacing almost every major part and borrowing from family I can’t afford to pay back. I even took out a loan for a transmission that failed multiple times. Each breakdown has cost me jobs, income, and the ability to provide for my child. My car has now failed again, and I have no way to get to work. Because of months of lost income from car issues and health problems, I’ve fallen behind on essential bills. My gas and electric are scheduled to be shut off this week, and I’m struggling to afford food and rent. I’ve applied for government assistance, but due to the recent shutdown, nothing is being processed.

I’m doing everything I can—I’ve returned to therapy, I’m applying to Columbus State to rebuild my future, and I’m trying to find a safe, stable path forward for my child and myself. But right now, I truly need help. I am raising funds to either finally repair my car or replace it with something reliable so I can return to work, regain stability, and begin paying back the loved ones who have supported me through this impossible time. If you’re able to help—even a little—it would mean the world to us. Thank you for reading my story and for any support you can give.