Update at the bottom!

On February 7th, I was attacked by a dog. The bite caused a 3 inch laceration above my elbow that opened my brachial artery. It was nearly fatal. A tourniquet was needed for upwards of 30 minutes. I was rushed in an ambulance to trauma surgery, where they worked to repair the damage for two hours. For more than two hours, I just tried to breathe steadily and not think about how close I might be to my last breath. While I was lucky enough to survive, the aftermath is life-altering. I cannot move my left hand.

I've always been proud to take care of myself, and be independent. Right now, I am unable to work. Hopefully, I will regain the use of my hand, but it is gong to be a long process. We aren't yet sure the full extent of the damage, but either way I will require a lot of physical therapy, possibly more surgery, and it will be a long time before I can return to my career of 12 years.

I am asking for help covering my upcoming medical bills, and the rent, phone, co-pays, and health insurance that will make my recovery possible.

UPDATE 3/24: I've healed well from the surgery, but I am still dealing with significant nerve damage. I'm not yet cleared for work, and the copays are piling up from so many follow up appointments. Every bit of help means the world to me. <3 Thank you to everyone who has helped so far.