Hello, I’m Melissa. For years, I’ve shared my life with my mother through my Instagram project @nothing_to_worry_about, chronicling her experiences with mental illness, her prescription pill addiction, and the hardships of loving someone who is chronically sick.

I hate asking for help, and all of this feels awkward. But I’m reaching out now to ask for support in giving my mom, Deborah, the care, stability, and dignity she deserves.

It’s time to admit that I can’t do this alone.

Background

My mom has struggled with mental health challenges for as long as I can remember. She’s been a victim of both herself and a broken healthcare system.

In the winter of 2020, after having her hip replaced, she fell and broke her femur. That’s when she first entered long-term care. Her rehab was never properly completed. Later, after her second hip replacement, again, there was no adequate rehabilitation. As a result, she has lost nearly all strength and mobility in her legs.

This past week, she fell once more, breaking her shoulder (her dominant arm) and her kneecap.

Her current living situation does not provide the care she needs. She needs to be moved to a facility that I can visit more frequently to advocate for her. My family members are unwilling to help, and I simply don’t have the resources to carry this financial burden alone. I’m not sure where else to turn.

What the Funds Will Cover

Every dollar you give will go directly toward tangible, essential needs such as:

• Facility Move & Transport (Missouri or New Jersey)

o Up to $8,000/month self-pay during new medicaid application

o Moving expenses (rental van, boxes, transportation)

o If applicable, airfare and logistics for relocation, establishing residency

• Additional Physical Rehab or Accessibility Equipment

o New walker, shower/bathroom aids, safety rails

• Clothing & Basic Necessities

o I've created an Amazon wishlist of things mom needs

• Emergency or Crisis Needs

My goal is based on what’s required to safely move her and cover the first few months of care. I’ll keep all donors updated with transparent reports.

Why This Matters

Humans, the mentally ill, the forgotten, and especially our loved ones deserve proper care and dignity.

By supporting this fundraiser, you’re not just helping with mom’s immediate needs. You’re giving her the chance to live with more stability, fewer crises, and more peace. You’re also helping me and for that, I’m not sure how to thank you enough.

How You Can Help (Beyond Donating)

Even if you can’t give financially, you can still make a huge difference by:

• Sharing this campaign with your community, on social media, or with friends.

• Offering encouragement. A kind message or note means more than I can express.

Final Thoughts

My mom has given me so much and taken a lot, too. Some might say she doesn’t “deserve” this level of care, but I believe in doing what’s right.

If I were in her position, I’d pray someone would help me. Despite our complicated past, I just want her to be safe, cared for, and treated with dignity. My mom is 70 years old. She still has life left to live and she deserves a chance to live it with compassion and support. If her story has ever moved you, or if you believe in the dignity of every life, I’m asking for your help.

Thank you for reading, for believing, and for being part of this journey. I’ll keep you updated on her progress every step of the way.

With gratitude,

YOU HAVE NOTHING TO WORRY ABOUT!!!

Melissa