Help Me Rebuild My Life After Cancer, Stroke & Loss

Dear Friends, Family, and Kind Supporters,

I never imagined I would be writing something like this. But life can change in the blink of an eye — and I’ve learned that the hard way.

Just a few years ago, I was a small business owner, working hard and living a life I had built with pride. Then COVID-19 hit, and like so many others, I lost my business — my livelihood — seemingly overnight.

As I was trying to pick up the pieces, I received a devastating diagnosis: lung cancer. I faced months of treatment, surgeries, and uncertainty. I fought hard and, thankfully, I survived. But the battle took a toll.

Before I could even fully recover, I suffered a stroke, which left me with permanent disabilities. I am now unable to work and rely solely on Social Security retirement benefits. However, the strict income limits mean I can’t supplement my income without risking a reduction in the little support I have.

In the United States, the cost of living and healthcare is simply unsustainable for someone in my situation. That’s why I am seeking your help to start over — in Portugal.

Portugal offers a significantly lower cost of living and access to national healthcare — a lifeline for someone like me. I can live with dignity and stability on my modest Social Security income there. But to meet the visa requirements for residency, I must show proof of a $12,000 cash reserve. I also need round trip airfare and security deposit for leasing an apartment in Portugal.

That’s where I need your help.

I am humbly asking for donations to help me raise $15,000 — not for luxury or comfort, but for a second chance. A chance to live somewhere I can afford housing, receive medical care, and begin healing — physically, mentally, and emotionally.

Every dollar gets me closer to this dream and to stability. If you’re not in a position to donate, I completely understand — even sharing this campaign with others can make a big difference.

Thank you for reading my story, and thank you from the bottom of my heart for your compassion and support.

With gratitude,

Gina Carroll