Hi! I am launching this fundraiser to help pay my past due mortgage. I became unemployed in December 2024 due to mental health challenges that resulted from my caregiving and work pressures.

I am my mom's sole and primary caregiver. She has had a brain disorder/a form of dementia since at least 2022. In December 2024, her condition worsened suddenly and significantly, and it became apparent that I needed to devote concentrated time to organizing resources, support, and additional care for my mom.

Coupled with extreme workplace trauma and stress, I experienced a mental break in December 2024. I am an only child and have no other support to help with my mom's needs. I became overwhelmed with juggling work and my mom's urgent needs, which are my top priority. I even experienced suicidal ideation, and what saved my life is the will to live for my mom.

My former employer did not provide job security during unpaid leave, and I resigned to care for my mom and myself. My mom's condition causes severe disruption to our daily lives, and I am quickly adapting to keep as much normalcy as possible.

Soon after my resignation, I was diagnosed with invasive ductal carcinoma. This was a huge blow to me and quite ironic: I am a former journalist and freelancer who focused on health and healthcare. Just last year, I received training to launch a podcast about health equity. I also have worked in healthcare and healthcare policy communications for the last 10 years. I am a staunch healthcare justice advocate, and despite the turmoil I am dealing with, I managed to finish my doctorate in health communication and media---just two weeks after my breast cancer surgery.

I am hopeful and am looking for a bright spot in my breast cancer journey. I am grateful for access to healthcare as well as a second chance at life. So, I am now working to start a nonprofit to help unemployed women or women caregivers who have breast cancer at any stage with vital resources such as wigs, transit and transportation funds, meals, and peer support. These are things I needed during my initial cancer diagnosis and treatment.

I am actively looking for full-time work or contract opportunities. I also am seeking consulting opportunities in communications, media, storytelling, and writing. I have faith that I will soon land employment and will be able to regain my financial footing. In the meantime, I have fallen behind on my mortgage payments by five months, and my home is now in foreclosure with no sell date.

My main concern is my mom. I do not want to see her displaced, given her health issues.

Thank you for considering my story. I know many people are in need. I am grateful for whatever I receive.

Kimberly N. Alleyne