Hi friends,

This is hard to write, but I want to be honest and direct.

I came to Thailand on my first trip outside the United States believing I could reset my life, live simply, and figure out my next steps as I went. I wasn’t running from responsibility—I was trying to heal, regroup, and build something sustainable. Part of the reason I came here was to get proper care for a neck and lower back injury that I’ve been dealing with for some time. Returning to the United States right now would mean losing access to that care and facing higher health insurance premiums, which makes staying here not just preferable, but medically and financially necessary.

Things didn’t go the way I expected.

Because of unexpected immigration complications, rising living costs, and not having stable housing, my financial situation has deteriorated quickly. To be completely transparent, I currently have $350 to my name. I don’t have a flight booked because a ticket costs more than that. I want to stay and try to make this work, but the truth is I’ve reached a point where I can’t do this alone anymore.

Right now, I’m stuck in a vulnerable in-between place—without enough money to secure housing, remain fully compliant with immigration, continue necessary medical care, or guarantee a safe return home if staying becomes impossible.

I’m not asking for comfort or luxury. I’m asking for stability.

⸻

Steps I’m Taking to Move Forward

Even in this difficult season, I’m actively working toward solutions:

• I’ve been volunteering with a local organization here in Thailand, contributing my time and energy while trying to stay connected and productive.

• I’m arranging to have my diploma sent from the United States to Thailand so I can officially accept a teaching position that would start late January to early February. This position would allow me to work legally in Thailand and transition my visa from a DTV visa to a work permit, providing long-term stability.

These steps show that I’m not just asking for help—I’m also taking responsibility, building a plan, and working toward long-term stability.

⸻

What I Need Help With

To move forward safely and responsibly while these opportunities develop, I need help covering:

• Housing setup: first month, last month, and security deposit

• Basic living expenses for the short term while I stabilize

• Medical care and related expenses to continue treatment for my neck and lower back injuries

• Immigration-related costs so I can remain compliant and avoid penalties

• An emergency buffer or return travel if needed

In practical terms, the long-term need is to have three months of rent upfront, plus about a month and a half of living expenses so I can breathe, think clearly, and make wise decisions instead of desperate ones.

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Itemized Breakdown of $4,000 Goal

I want to be completely transparent about how any funds raised will be used. The goal of $4,000 is designed to cover my basic living costs and necessities in Thailand through February or March, while I stabilize my situation, continue necessary medical care, and prepare to start my teaching position. Here’s the breakdown:

1. Housing & Security Deposit – $1,800

• First month rent: $600

• Last month rent: $600

• Security deposit: $600

(Ensures I have a safe, stable place to live for the next few months.)

2. Basic Living Expenses – $1,500

• Food & groceries: $600 (approx. $200/month for 3 months)

• Water & electricity: $300 (approx. $100/month for 3 months)

• Internet & cell phone: $150 (approx. $50/month for 3 months)

• Transportation: $150 (BTS, taxi, or short trips)

• Miscellaneous daily costs: $300

3. Medical Care – $500

• Ongoing treatment for neck and lower back injuries

• Follow-ups, medications, and any urgent care needs

4. Immigration & Legal Fees – $150

• Visa extensions, compliance fees, or administrative costs

5. Emergency Buffer / Contingency – $50

• Unexpected minor expenses or urgent needs

Total Goal: $4,000

This plan gives me not just the bare minimum but enough to stay safely in Thailand, continue treatment for my injuries, cover living expenses, and avoid desperate situations until at least February or March—while I prepare to start my teaching position.