This comes after a lot of thought, and a lot of nowhere else to turn. There are three things I am seeking any type of assistance with that have been all-consuming and have taken over my life from the last three years to the last month. I want to start out by saying I have always prided myself on being strong, independent, and always helping others, so this is incredibly vulnerable and what feels like a failure to write. It’s hard to accept it’s my reality, and writing it all makes it that much more real because I’m not someone who likes to ask for help. Since I was released from medical rehabilitation (will make sense below), I have applied for ten jobs a day with zero offers, which I can reflect. I have done everything from jobs in my bachelor's degree to fast food, and nothing. Again, not being able to support myself for the first time and realizing I’ve run out of resources is the hardest thing I’ve ever had to face because trust me, it’s not for a lack of trying. And I mean trying everything.

First, on February 26, 2023, I was in a serious multi-car accident while driving to a work event. I was transported to a hospital close by from the scene and had multiple injuries from the accident. The accident triggered a team of doctors to get the help I needed to recover. I was in Sinai Hospital's rehabilitation for two years before it was deemed by WCC that they would no longer cover my care. At this time, my team of doctors (neurologist, pain management doctor, neuropsychologist, speech therapist) said I needed to continue treatment, but again it was denied, which left it to me out of pocket. Because the doctors could not give a date I would be “better” after three months, my job had to let me go. While I understood this decision, it was a dream job, and I was so proud of where I was in life and the life I was creating for myself. I haven’t received a single cent in payment in nearly two years. I was fortunate to have savings, but that ran out, and the family member who was able to help me with basics has unfortunately done all they can do. So, I am now in crisis with having no income (I cannot apply for disability or unemployment as we are trying to get me back into a program on a stipend). Given this, over the past year, I’ve had to move, sell personal belongings, delay bills, etc. The amount of stress in conjunction with trying to get better, as well as the other difficulties I am facing, has begun to take a burden I literally cannot do anything about. I am hoping to pay bills in the same month as rent, be able to take care of my dog and not rehome her (she was trained initially after my car accident as a service dog for support), so she is vital, but dogs are especially expensive. I’m trying to stand stable on moving ground, and I’ve run out of options.

Second, as some of you know (I was able to FaceTime a couple of you while in the hospital when I had the strength), I was hospitalized and extremely sick almost all of February. I am still dealing with this but went against being admitted again because I financially do not have the means. The stress makes everything worse; however, I am only getting sicker. I waited to make this till my bill came, and despite having healthcare, I owe $6,366.50 after it was adjusted by insurance. Being as I have no income for nearly two years, I don’t know where this will come from, and I have discussed setting up a payment plan; however, the lowest they can go monthly is $214 per month given my bill. Again, where this money would come from, I again sadly don’t have an answer to.

Third, it’s public knowledge that my father, who still lives states away from me, is very ill. He is battling numerous diseases, with liver cancer being the most serious, which has taken a turn in recent months. Some angels helped me get home to see him about a year and a half ago, but that’s once in six years, and at this point, it’s vital I get to him. Again, I have exhausted all means, even contacting airlines for a compassionate flight despite needing a car and a hotel/motel by the hospital while I am there. My current home airport is BWI, and the airport where my father is closest to the hospital is Lambert International Airport (STL). Not seeing him before it could be the last chance I have would be something I’d regret for the rest of my life, and it’s something I have to ask. I’d rather be homeless, which at this rate, I don’t know what I am going to do, but seeing my dad in person and not pictures taken by nurses where I don’t recognize him breaks my heart daily.

I don’t know what will come of all this. The expenses are becoming astronomical, and while I do not feel I could put a goal that would reflect everything, especially given flights change, I know my life is my responsibility, but I’ve exhausted every option. I just thought at this point I have nothing more to lose, and I don’t know anyone who can help me, but I’m praying for a miracle and for community. There is absolutely nothing too little; even words of encouragement are welcome if there is an allotted space for that. If you’ve read all the way to here, I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart. This has been heartbreaking to write as it makes me grasp the reality of my situation, to lean on others, and just hope.

Thank you for your time if nothing else. Please look out for one another and count every blessing.

All my love and gratitude,

Margot