Hi, I'm Joe a 57 year old single male.

I hate to ask, but I have been sick with bad hips and other arthritis related issues, along with a few surgeries I had in 2022 for Carpal Tunnel and my Rotator Cuff and Torn Bicep. My case for my disability is coming up in September or October of 2023, as they have set me up with 2 appointments to see their doctors on 8/23 and 8/26 of 2023. I hope they will be making their decision soon after that and then I will be able to pay my bills after my disability starts. After my Disability starts, I will be able to get my Left Hip replaced sometime in January or February of 2024 depending on when my disability starts.

I was hoping there might be a few people out there that can relate with my plight of Arthritis and bone on bone hip pain. Not being able to stand for more than an hour, or picking something you dropped up off the floor.

I have been trying to get help from some of the other local organizations, but since I live by myself and have no children, I have found out that I don’t qualify for many of the programs out there. That is why I am turning to you for help. So, I was hoping you might be able to help out. I have gotten bills down to about $1165 a month and was hoping you might be able to help me out for September, October and November until my disability payments kick in. I have not been able to work since last August of 2022 and my savings and funds have run out.

I have not been using the AC or Heat and have turned off the Hot Water Heater to save on the electricity. I have been showering, when possible, at the Carroll Wellness Center to save on water. I have had to give away my 53 fish I grew from babies and have had for the last 5 years to cut water and electricity use, along with eliminating the cost of the fish food and supplies. I have cut back on my medications and supplements, as I can't afford most of them for now. I have been trying to sell the fish supplies, furniture and other household items to raise money to pay my bills. I have tried to eliminate travel to a minimum of Dr. Appointments, Physical Therapy, food shopping, and trips in town to help take care of my elderly parent's needs (Mom 82 and a stroke victim, and Dad 91), to conserve on gas.

Thank you and God Bless You.

Joseph S. Mina