Marcus has always dreamed of visiting Chicago. It’s a place he’s talked about for years — a city he’s imagined himself standing in one day, just taking it all in. That dream has helped him keep going through some very difficult times.

A few years ago, Marcus was involved in a serious accident that left him physically and emotionally shaken. While he is not paralysed, the injury had lasting effects. His body has never fully been the same, and many types of work are no longer possible for him.

Today, Marcus works making handmade soaps for people, selling them at very small prices just to stay afloat. He puts real care into his work — sometimes he even makes bath bombs, which he enjoys because they bring a bit of creativity and comfort into his days. Despite working as much as he can, his income is extremely limited. At the end of most months, he can only just afford to pay his electricity bill, leaving little to nothing for savings or emergencies.

To help bring in extra money, Marcus appears on TikTok Live as part of his job, where he is required to dress in costumes to help boost sales and engagement. While this helps keep the lights on, it can be emotionally draining and difficult, especially knowing how far his life feels from where he once hoped it would be.

Marcus isn’t lazy. He isn’t giving up. He works hard every single day — but no matter how much effort he puts in, getting ahead feels impossible. His dream of visiting Chicago now feels completely out of reach on his own.

This fundraiser is to help Marcus finally experience the city he’s dreamed of for so long. The funds raised will go toward basic travel costs, accommodation, food, and accessibility needs so the trip can be done safely and simply.

He’s not asking for luxury.

He’s not asking for excess.

He’s just hoping for one meaningful experience — a chance to see Chicago with his own eyes and feel that all these years of struggle didn’t erase his dreams.

Any donation, no matter the amount, would mean everything. If you can’t donate, sharing this page would be a huge help.

Thank you for taking the time to read Marcus’s story and for helping make his dream possible.