My name is Ken, and I’m currently living on the streets of Irving, Texas after a difficult year battling throat cancer. In 2023, I completed treatment, but the side effects made it impossible to keep my previous job. Since then, I’ve only managed to find a couple of short-term contracts, and I used up all my unemployment compensation trying to stay afloat. In 2024, I was evicted from my home, and at the same time, I lost my brother, which made things even harder.

Recently, I experienced a mental health crisis and admitted myself to the hospital for help with severe depression and anxiety. I was released just two days ago and am now redoubling my efforts to find work and secure a safe place to stay. During this time, I had to make the heartbreaking decision to leave my emotional support dog at an animal shelter, believing he deserves a better life with another family. I also lost the friend who helped me get to the hospital, as my crisis affected his own mental health, and I let our friendship go so he could focus on his recovery.

Right now, I spend my days carrying my remaining possessions from place to place, trying to keep them safe. I use public WiFi at places like Starbucks to look for jobs and work on fundraising, but it’s exhausting and I haven’t slept in over 24 hours. I’ve found an extended stay hotel nearby with affordable weekly rates, and staying there would give me a safe place to rest, recover, and focus on finding steady work. My sibling is also helping by sending me some of my belongings from another state, which I hope to sell to support myself further.

I’m raising funds to cover basic needs like medication, food, doctor’s appointments, and a safe place to stay while I continue my job search. I also need help with travel costs to see my new therapist, as I am committed to doing the work to get better and become healthy and whole. Any support will help me get back on my feet and move toward stability. Thank you for taking the time to read my story and for any help you can offer.