To put it bluntly, this year has not been kind to me. At the beginning of April, I was strongly urged by both my doctor and my therapist to pursue a period of medical leave from my job to work on my struggles with severe depression and anxiety. My supervisors were sympathetic and supportive, and we agreed that three months of leave was healthy and necessary. They assured me that the Department of Medical Leave would be able to provide me with adequate compensation to keep myself afloat.

This was not the case.

The single payment they provided me with has barely kept me going during this period of time. I've been able to keep myself fed, but I've fallen so far behind on other expenses that I feel like I won't ever recover without asking for help.

I returned to work last week, which had me feeling optimistic, but at the beginning of Week #2 I tested positive for COVID-19 (yes, I am vaccinated and boosted, if you want to know), which is going to take me out of work for another week and leave yet another major dent in my wallet that I really can't handle right now.

I might add: my birthday is August 4. Right now, the best gift would be starting my next trip around the sun debt-free and eager for the future.

I deeply appreciate any contribution of whatever size at this time. Thank you so much for your support.