My name is Kelly, and I am a single mom to two amazing kids. A year ago, I went into organ failure and had to close down my business. Since then, I have been in and out of the hospital every month, fighting to regain my health while doing everything I can to care for my children. Any energy I have goes to them first, but it has been incredibly hard to balance my medical needs with being the primary parent.

I am doing everything possible to get better, but I am unable to work full time right now. I am searching for part-time work, but it’s difficult to manage with so many doctor’s appointments and the demands of being a mom. The cost of rent, utilities, groceries, and gas for traveling to specialists—some of whom are two hours away—has become overwhelming. I hate to see my kids hurting because I can barely afford the necessities, and I want nothing more than to support them on my own again.

I have been blessed with a wonderful, supportive community over the past year. I am truly blown away by the care and generosity I’ve experienced during the hardest chapter of my life. There was a time when we didn’t think I would make it to Christmas this year, but I am slowly regaining my strength. I put on a brave face, but it is harder than you can imagine. Any help, no matter how small, would mean the world to me and my children. Thank you so much for your kindness and support.