Help Micky & Her Cat Dora Get Back On Their Feet

Hello, I'm Michaela (I go by Micky). I'm 63 and determined to get back on my feet again. But I'm critically behind on my rent. I don't want to be evicted. Can you help?

My story...In March 2023, I became very sick with a severe and debilitating case of shingles that wiped me out for several weeks, including the slow recovery process through the remainder of the year afterwards. I wasn't working during this time, but managed to get through the worst of it on my savings.

Two years on, I still experience occasional nerve damage flare-ups (a post shingles condition called postherpetic neuralgia, or PHN). These episodes sometimes bring fatigue that leaves me drained. The good news is I have been learning to manage these flare-ups and what triggers them, so when they do happen, they are less intense and short lived. If one thing has progressed in the right direction, it's this one!

But my current financial situation? Difficult. I do receive Social Security each month; however, as many know, it's not enough to cover all the bills. I still strive to pay my bills on time or as best I can. Unfortunately, the one avenue I hoped could help - assistance programs - have become more restrictive in determining eligibility due to funding cuts. I am still too much over the threshold to be eligible for any of the current ones still available.

I have been actively looking for outside employment, to supplement the income I need. My savings I built up for years are long gone after being sick for so long.

I am glad for the handful of small temporary jobs that have come my way, but nothing promising for longer term, either part or full time.

This hurts, because I know I do good work and have proven it for years throughout my career.

To keep up positive emotional and mental energy is not easy when you can't stop feeling by getting sick in the first place you've let yourself down.

All these factors combined at once have been a real blow. I previously was always able to pay all my rent and bills on time, keep food on the table for me and for my (now) 10 year old cat Dora.

My first priority is keeping this roof over our heads. And I don't want to even consider rehoming Dora. But if I'm not able to get ahead, I simply can't afford to care for her otherwise.

This would be the worst outcome for me. I don't know what I'd do without her.

I am determined to get back on my feet again. Which is why I'm asking for your help and support.

Asking for financial help is not something I want to do. But I'm at a loss where else to go.

Please be assured, every donation goes to paying off all past due and upcoming rent! Any remainder goes towards rebuilding an emergency fund.

It's a lot to ask. But every donation, no matter what the amount, will help pull me through and out - to which I will appreciate immensely.

Thank you and with deep gratitude to all,

Micky