Hello - My name is Sally Blanchard. For many years I earned my living with my art and educating people about their companion parrots through my speaking, programs, in-home and telephone consultations, my publications including a magazine that I published for 20 years. I am well-known for my knowledge of parrots and wild birds. Over time the Parrot World changed with everything happening on the Internet and I no longer am able to earn a reliable income from my parrot information.

At 78 years of age, I receive Social Security but it doesn't even cover my housing and utilities. Last year, 2021, was a horrible year for me. I injured my shoulder and had to have Rotator Cuff surgery. This surgery has a long recovery and I was unable to do the artwork I usually do to implement my income. About the time I was recovering from that, I came down with Breakthrough covid although I had my 2 vaccinations. I didn't have to be hospitalized it was as if I had a very bad flu for six weeks or so. As I improved, I realized that I had remaining symptoms with "long haulers covid" which is still causing me such problems as severe fatigue and not being able to function or think as well. Since I had Covid, I now really feel my age when I really hadn't before.

In December, my 32-year-old car broke down and I have been unable to afford to get it fixed. I had a newer car but a couple of years ago, a woman ran a stop sign and totaled it, and caused injury to my knee. I have had to depend on rides from friends who have their own situations to get groceries and doctor's appointments. I am also behind on many of my bills. I am asking for help to get my car fixed or get a used car that runs, to catch up on my gas/electric bill, and to become current on my mortgage. I also need to pay someone for some necessary house repairs and moving heavy items.

Your generosity will help me to get my life going again. As soon as I can get the car situation resolved, I will really appreciate being less dependent on others and being able to get my life organized and start on on my artwork and writing again. Thank you so much!