On December 31, I was hospitalized with a kidney infection and diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). The infection had progressed far enough that I was evaluated for sepsis, and if I hadn’t come in when I did, it could have become much more serious. As of January 3, I am still inpatient while treatment is completed. This followed an earlier hospital admission on December 10 for DKA caused by an adverse reaction to medication, which I discontinued. These were back-to-back medical emergencies and both required inpatient care.

My health insurance expired at 11:59 PM on December 31, and my new coverage doesn’t begin until January 15. That timing means most of this hospitalization will not be covered. This is happening on top of prior medical bills, recovery from my dog’s surgery this summer, and a current shortfall in court-ordered payments. I’m working with the hospital’s financial assistance team and will return to work as soon as I’m medically cleared, but the gap is still significant.

People who know me know I don’t like asking for help for myself. I do my best to handle things responsibly and quietly. This is simply a moment where the gap is too large to manage alone. If you’re able to help, either by donating or sharing, I would be deeply grateful. Any support will go directly toward uncovered hospital expenses and basic recovery costs. Thank you for reading and for any support you’re able to offer.