Venmo@Raresoul06

If you know me personally, you know that asking for help is one of the hardest things I have ever had to do. I have spent years encouraging others to keep going when life gets difficult, to keep believing in themselves, and to keep taking one step forward no matter how hard the journey becomes. Today, I am taking my own advice and allowing myself to be vulnerable.

Venmo@Raresoul06

About eight months ago, I found myself in a situation where promises were made to me that ultimately fell through. Those broken promises left me facing challenges I never expected. I found myself struggling to keep up with bills, trying to save my home, keep my utilities on, and hold everything together while life seemed to be unraveling around me. At the same time, my vehicle began having serious mechanical problems. I have tried multiple times to repair it, hoping each repair would be the one that got me back on the road. Unfortunately, every fix has led to another issue, and I have reached the point where continuing to repair it is simply no longer possible. There were days when I felt overwhelmed. Days when I wondered how much more I could carry. But quitting was never an option.

I am 52 years old, and I made the decision to go back to school because I believe it is never too late to create a better future. After months of obstacles and setbacks, I have finally worked through the financial challenges related to my education and am preparing to begin school. For me, going back to school is more than earning a degree. It is about proving to myself—and to my grandson—that no matter how many times life knocks you down, you can still get back up. I am also raising my 16-year-old grandson. He watches everything I do. Every challenge I face is an opportunity to show him what perseverance looks like. I want him to see that hard times do not define us. Our response to them does. In addition to school and family responsibilities, I have a medical condition that requires regular appointments. Reliable transportation is not a convenience for me—it is a necessity. Without a dependable vehicle, getting to doctor's appointments, school, work opportunities, and caring for my grandson becomes incredibly difficult.

Today, I am asking for help to purchase a reliable vehicle, cover insurance costs, and obtain a laptop needed for school. This is not easy for me. I have always believed I should be able to handle everything on my own. Asking for help has often felt like admitting failure. But I am learning that there is strength in humility, strength in vulnerability, and strength in allowing others to help when life becomes heavier than one person can carry alone. If you are able to donate, no matter how small the amount, I would be deeply grateful. If you cannot donate, I completely understand. Sharing this fundraiser could be just as meaningful. Sometimes one share reaches the person who is able to help change someone's circumstances. For those who know me, you know I am not someone who asks for handouts. I am someone who keeps pushing forward, keeps fighting, and keeps trying to build a better future no matter how difficult the road becomes. Today, I am simply asking for a little help getting back on that road. Thank you for reading my story. Thank you for your prayers, your support, your kindness, and your willingness to share. From the bottom of my heart, thank you.

With gratitude, Rare.