Hi, my name is Shannon. I am raising funds for myself and my family as we face one of the hardest seasons of our lives. After years of caring for loved ones, enduring unexpected loss, and living with a permanent injury, I am now at risk of losing our home and need help to build a sustainable future.

For more than two decades, I was a wife, mother, and caregiver. Nine years ago, my husband of 23 years left unexpectedly and spent years fighting me in court to avoid paying support. Even after our divorce was finalized, the legal battles continued, draining me emotionally and financially. When his illness excused him from paying alimony in 2022, I was left without that support altogether. I resorted to cashing in IRA's , savings, using Credit cards and even sold my car. I have nothing left.

At the same time, I was caring for my parents. In 2019, I moved them into my home so I could help my father care for my mother as her early-onset dementia worsened. After she passed in 2021, I became my father’s full-time caregiver as his health declined. We shared a deep bond, and his presence was such a comfort to me. Sadly, I lost him this year, in February 2025.

Adding to these challenges, in January 2022 I sustained an injury while working for the Illinois Department of Justice. My injury was ruled permanent by doctors, leaving me unable to work outside the home. Workmen’s Compensation ended in May 2023, and I’ve been in court fighting ever since for permanency — without any income.

During this time, my father covered most of my bills. When he passed, I not only lost my daddy, but also the stability he provided.

Where I Am Now

I have five incredible young adult children and four beautiful grandchildren who inspire me to keep pushing forward. Despite my limitations, I’ve been working to build an online business that allows me to provide from home. But right now, I cannot do this alone. I need help both with immediate expenses and with creating a foundation to make this business sustainable.

How the Funds Will Be Used

I am asking for $50,000 to:

Catch up on household bills so my family does not lose our home.

Purchase products and supplies to keep my online business running and growing.

Hire a helper for packing and shipping, as my disability makes this work nearly impossible for me to manage alone.

Why Your Support Matters

This fundraiser is more than financial relief — it is the bridge that will help my family survive this season and give me the chance to rebuild. Your donation will directly help me keep a roof over our heads, provide stability for my children and grandchildren, and allow me to create a sustainable business to support us long-term.

No gift is too small. If you are unable to donate, simply sharing this campaign would mean the world to me.

In Closing

From the bottom of my heart, thank you for taking the time to read my story. The kindness of friends, family, and strangers alike gives me hope that we will get through this difficult chapter. Your support will help me protect my family’s home and give us the chance to rebuild a more stable and secure future. God Bless you!