In August 2025, I was working at Burger King. I barely was getting paid $200 at the end of two weeks, and I also had to pay my parent money for utilities.

This woman adopted me when I was a small child and has been physically abusing me since. I remember blacking out on numerous occasions from being choked, and countless nosebleeds due to my sickle cell.

I was in college in 2024, but dropped out due to my worsening mental health, and I had only gone to get away from her for some time. She is very controlling.

When I left in August 2025, I had nothing. I just took my phone and my body. I slept on the streets, had numerous cases of sexual assault happen to me because of this, was almost raped, and had things stolen from me that I did earn.

I've been trying to get into a shelter for a while, but beds aren't available. I have sickle cell, I am due for glasses, and need medication.

I would, of course, work a job once I'm in a place, but please, if you can donate, do. Even if you can't, sharing this story helps in ways you can't imagine.