Help Ralphs Employee

There’s an employee at a Ralphs grocery store who I used to have quick chats with whenever I would go shopping. She was always so sweet and always smiling whenever I’d see her. My first encounter with her was when I was reaching for water at the very top shelf and I couldn’t reach it, so she noticed and went to call a taller employee to help me. From then on, we’d recognize each other and say hello. A couple months later I realized that I had not seen her in awhile.

It wasn’t until a few days ago when I seen her for the first time and noticed that her hair was shaved off. I almost didn’t recognize her but she remembered me. I knew that something wasn’t right and that it could be from health issues but I didn’t want to be rude and ask. Instead, we asked each other “how are you?” and that’s when she opened up to me. She told me that she’s been gone from work due to health complications and that most of her money went towards her medications. She also told me that she had to miss her car payment because her meds were more important. She doesn’t have that support from her family. It broke my heart when I heard that! At that point, I wished I could pay off her car for her so she wouldn’t have to worry about it. I’ve always heard stories like this, but have never personally met anyone going through it. Even after all of this, she maintained her happy spirit and smile, even though deep down she’s stressed. 

It would be nice to raise some money to help her out. All funds will go directly to her. I don’t expect to meet the goal, but anything would help. I kept her identity anonymous because I did not ask for her permission to do this. I also wanted to surprise her and let her know there’s hope even when times are difficult.