On January 5th, 2026 a Ford pickup swerved into the back of my car and sent me spinning into the median going around 50 mph. A trip to the emergency room revealed a concussion, whiplash, and sprains in my neck and back. I was completely unable to work for a month due to daily migraines and pain and have only returned to work 16 hours a week as of February 9th. This accident has caused a flare up of my Fibromyalgia which means I have been in pain all over my body every day since the crash.

In the month and a half since, I've been trying to navigate appointments (primary care, imaging, neurology, optometry, dental, physical therapy, mental health therapy), and resume the normal activities of life. My capacity to do things I enjoy -- making art, bird watching, seeing friends-- has been greatly reduced and I have spent most days at home unmotivated and in pain.

I haven't gotten the payouts from my insurance for the value of my car or for my lost wages but I still have bills to pay and normal expenses. I haven't replaced the car that I had because I simply can't afford to without an income or compensation from insurance. I've been reliant on help from others to get to and from appointments, to go to the pharmacy or do any shopping.

I tried to think of ways I could get by without asking for help from others but I feel like at this point I have to rely on support from friends and family. If you are able to offer support while I am going through this awful moment, thank you. Thank you for reading. Thank you for sharing my story if you choose to do so.

Update 2/19: My mom Joni, AKA https://m.facebook.com/dandelionandcrow/ is holding a fundraiser sale for my benefit. All profits made will go towards assisting me with expenses. Anyone who makes a donation through this GoFundMe can contact her and receive a free gift as a thank you from my mom.