Hi, my name is Omar. Asking for help like this is not easy—I’ve always worked hard to improve my life, even when I kept hitting roadblocks, and I’ve always fought to push forward.Right now, though, I’m facing something I can’t manage on my own.

A few weeks ago, doctors found an inguinal hernia on my CT scan. Even though they call it "small" the pain it causes is anything but small. It comes and goes, and it’s gotten bad enough that sitting or standing for too long makes my leg and hip ache. After multiple ER and doctor visits, the only real solution is surgery. Unfortunately, my surgery date is still weeks away, and until then I’m unable to work without risking making things worse.

Here’s what the last month has looked like for me:

First ER visit: Pain was so severe I couldn’t move without help. They confirmed the hernia and ordered further tests.

Follow-up doctor visit: CT scan showed the hernia, classified as “tiny,” but still capable of causing significant pain.

Ongoing symptoms: Pain that comes and goes, plus leg and hip discomfort whenever I sit or stand too long.

Latest doctor visit: Surgery recommended as the only fix, but it isn’t scheduled for several more weeks.

I work full-time in a kitchen, which means long hours on my feet, heavy lifting, and constant movement. With this hernia, those everyday tasks are no longer safe or even possible without severe pain. I’ve already lost two paychecks because I physically can’t do the job right now. And if my medical leave through the state isn’t approved, I could also lose my apartment. The stress of possibly losing my home on top of the physical pain has been overwhelming.

That’s why I’m turning here for help. I’m setting the goal at $3,000 to cover the rent, bills, and basic expenses I’ll need to stay afloat until I recover and can get back to work.

I know times are hard for everyone, and I wouldn’t be asking if I wasn’t truly in need. Any contribution—no matter the size—will make a real difference. Even sharing this page with others helps more than you know.

Thank you for taking the time to read my story, and for any kindness you can spare.

—Omar