Hi, my name is Katie Cruz.

For those who don't know me as well, here is the best I can do for a brief introduction. I'm someone with a huge heart who gives my all to everything I do, gives a ride to a pal when needed (no matter the distance), and a hand to hold when needed. I am typically a laid back individual who, loves the beach, adore my pups, my parents are my world; I am also a chick who loves to bring as much happiness/bright smiles to the world as I can and I love to laugh till your lungs start making the squeeky sound from not being able to breathe enough.

Truth be told, this is one of the most humbling experiences I've had to go through, so there are no hahas, hehes, hohos, or jajas left in me this time; it's just life. I have been struggling quite a bit with my health recently, especially with an unexpected curveball delivered 2 weeks ago. My parents have done everything they can and they're out of what else we can do. So, I have had to accept the fact that the time has come to reach out for help.

I’ve always done my best to manage my finances and prepare for the unexpected, but the recent medical complication has left me in a difficult spot. Two weeks ago, I learned that I need a procedure and ongoing medication for a certain period of time whose costs go well beyond what I can cover in expenses at this time.

I’ve applied for every type of assistance available and used all of my savings, but I’ve still come up short. If you know me, you know I’m not the type to ask for help easily—I value my privacy and independence—but right now, it's time to let down some barriers.

Your support will go directly towards my procedure and the medication that will help me recover to be my normal (well, closest to normal) self. Any contribution, no matter the amount, means more to me than words can express. Every little bit helps in my current situation. In return, once I am back on my feet, I will ensure to put back into the community any help I was blessed with.

Thank you so much for your kindness and generosity in advance. If you would like to message me on the side for any questions, comments, or concerns, please do not hesitate to reach out.

-Katie L. Cruz

P.s. The photos I’ve chosen to share, celebrate the people who embody strength, have a rare and boundless love, and unwavering loyalty. They stood beside me through life’s peaks and valleys, and held onto me tightly as I faced a past medical challenge. These are my champions—the souls who gave me the courage to live fully, to see all of life's miraculous possibilities, and to see the extraordinary beauty of this world.

There are some specific people I feel it necessary and would like to thank from the bottom of my heart who have all helped me in exceptional, yet different ways throughout my time on earth. Although we may go periods of time without a word, you are still just as important: Aa'bria since '07, Yaneli since 2013; College: Nikki, Janie, and Steve B. aka Alexis; Cottrell: Yoda and his outstanding +1, the ITGuru/my 2nd Mom, Efigenia mi otra madre de Colombia y mi modelo de conducta, my favorite person to yell bye Felicia to, Jamie M., and Jim; and last, but far from the least the entirety of the Campbell family. I never expected to meet so many superheroes in my lifetime. Thank you all and thank you for putting up with me somehow.