A year ago, I thought I’d be back on my feet by now. Instead, I’m facing eviction, a $25,000 debt to my landlord, and a crossroads I never imagined I’d be at.

My name is Patrick. Many of you know me as Noms from my DJ days. I spent years teaching, building careers, and showing up for people. About six years ago, I transitioned out of DJing professionally and into estate sales and online auctions. When Covid and post-lockdown shifts permanently changed the nightlife industry, I knew stepping away had been the right move. Estate sales were steady for a while, and then they weren’t. I waited too long to pivot again. That’s on me.

As things unraveled, I did what a lot of people do when they're ashamed. I pulled back. I went quiet. I tried to handle it alone. I'm 46 years old, and asking for help does not come easily to me. I've spent most of my life being the person others could rely on, including organizing fundraisers for people going through difficult moments. Being on this side of that is not something I ever expected to experience myself.

For over a year, I’ve been applying consistently, following up, networking, and taking freelance and short-term work whenever possible. Those jobs covered food, utilities, and partial rent payments, but not enough to keep pace with full rent in this market.

Where Things Stand

I now owe approximately $25,000 in back rent. My landlord has been patient and understanding, but this balance needs to be resolved to prevent eviction and possible legal action. My lease includes a family guarantor, which means this situation could financially impact my mother as well.

Over the past year, I’ve sold nearly everything I own, including my entire record collection and other meaningful personal items, just to stay afloat. Expenses are at the bare minimum. There is nothing left to cut.

Last year, I received a few thousand dollars in short-term support from friends. That money went directly to rent and essential bills and helped temporarily. Since then, I’ve continued applying, expanded into new fields, and taught myself Salesforce and Zendesk to strengthen my resume and pivot toward more stable roles. Despite consistent effort, I have not yet secured full-time employment.

I’m also dealing with a health concern that I’ve postponed because of cost. I do not currently have insurance, so care would be fully out of pocket. At 46, there are screenings and evaluations I should not continue delaying. The uncertainty around that has been difficult, and I know I cannot keep waiting.

I live with my dog, who has been my constant through this past year. Rehoming him is not something I can emotionally or responsibly do. He depends on me.

What I'm Asking For

I’m seeking to raise $30,000:

• $25,000 to cover back rent and prevent eviction

• $5,000 to cover the next two months of housing and basic living expenses while I continue pursuing full-time work

My 90-Day Plan

If this fundraiser succeeds, the next 90 days will be focused entirely on securing full-time employment, continuing certification-level study in Salesforce and Zendesk, applying daily, stabilizing housing, and addressing necessary medical care.

Commitment to Transparency

This fundraiser is not about comfort. It is about stabilizing long enough to regain income and prevent financial collapse.

I am committed to transparency. I will post regular updates about employment progress and how funds are used. If I secure employment before the full amount is needed, remaining funds will go toward rent stability and medical expenses.

If you’re able to contribute, any amount helps. If you can’t donate, sharing this would mean a great deal.

Thank you for taking the time to read this.

Patrick (Noms)