Hi friends,

I never thought I’d be here again, but life has taken a turn I didn’t expect. Some of you know I recently ran a GoFundMe to cover my moving expenses, and I closed it once I thought I’d reached my goal. What I didn’t know at the time was that I would need major surgery on my foot. Next Tuesday, doctors will be placing plates and screws in my foot, and I won’t be able to put any pressure on it for at least 8 weeks.

Because I can’t walk or stand, I had to pay someone to unpack my home and help me manage daily tasks. That has already cost me $800, and I still need caregiving support during my recovery for things like cooking, cleaning, and even showering. On top of that, my MRI showed two herniated discs and other spinal damage, so I may also be facing back surgery.

I haven’t had a paycheck in a while and I’m already behind on my bills. While I was recently approved for short-term disability, it’s not enough to cover the mounting costs. The state won’t provide financial assistance because they consider my injuries “temporary,” and I don’t qualify for other aid because they say I “make too much,” even though I am financially in the red.

This morning, I felt so overwhelmed by everything that I almost took my life. I’ve been fighting depression and anxiety on top of all this, and my narcolepsy and cataplexy symptoms have been at an all-time high. My doctors even had to increase my Adderall dosage just so I can stay awake and function. I am fighting to hold on, but I cannot do it alone. I need help to keep going—help to cover caregiving, medical costs, and basic needs while I recover.

I know I already asked for help once, and I was so grateful for the love and support I received. I closed that campaign thinking I could manage the rest. But the truth is—I can’t. I’m scared, I’m humbled, and I’m reaching out again.

If you’re able to give anything toward my caregiving costs, medical bills, or living expenses while I recover, it would mean the world to me. Even sharing this with others would be a gift.

Thank you for showing me mercy and love when I need it most.

With gratitude,

Kiki Joy