I’ve lived in a toxic household my whole childhood. I kept my head down and followed the rules.. because that’s what helped me survive. I started working (at my dream job) as much as I possibly could: holidays, overtime, pickup extra shifts… anything to get out of the house. Until I had enough to finally move out on my own.

I was still pushing myself past my limits I guess, when I ruptured a disc in my spine at work just bending into a drawer one day. I’ve spent over a year trying to get back. Doctors, Back & Spine Specialists, Surgeons, Aquatic therapy, Injections, pain relief medications… I couldn’t afford my medical bills AND rent in Southern California with no income, so I was forced to move back with my parents.

It’s miserable here. Now, I can barely get my body to do daily tasks without being in pain… and having my mom be in control of when and what I eat is seriously messing with my recovery time and my mind in general. Eating healthy food on a consistent basis should be a right.. I don’t understand the control.

I do understand that my mother (and father) are mentally ill and need professional help, but I can no longer fight them to want to change. They have to do that for themselves, I have to focus on taking care of myself. They think I’m selfish, but I think it’s healthy… idk.

If you do decide to donate, I’d be extremely grateful to you.

Update 5/12/25: I’m being kicked out now. I don’t know if I even have the words.. I’m lost. I seriously need help more than ever. This transition feels insane. I’m already in debt.. now, I’m just scrambling to find free resources: EBT, MediCal, shelters, libraries, 988….

ANYTHING HELPS!! ❤️ I just need enough to pay my car insurance and gas to drive until I can finish physical therapy, get back to work and be able to get myself into a place again.

THANK YOU FOR BEING KIND