Hello! My name is Steph, and I am an Australian self-employed English language and history teacher living in Japan. I am reaching out for your support to help me regain a sense of independence by purchasing a car.

My Story:

For 16 years, I’ve made do without a car, relying on Japan's excellent public transport system or my own two feet despite challenges caused by the weather. However, due to my health becoming poorer, life has become increasingly and painfully difficult, especially as a parent to a young child and having a disability myself. Just before the COVID-19 pandemic, I was diagnosed with chronic rheumatoid arthritis, which quickly progressed. Additionally, I am now immunocompromised, making my daily life even more difficult as I often fall ill.

Managing my child's special needs, as well as my own virtually by myself, has been severely taxing, especially during flare-ups of my condition. My arthritis has worsened to the point where walking or using my hands or even simple movements (or a mix) have become extremely painful. This limits my ability to engage in activities with my friends and son, and it’s been heart-wrenching to miss out on these precious moments.

Financial Strain caused by treatment:

The cost of treatments and medications for my arthritis alone ranges from $400 to over $1000 per month, as I frequently have to change medications and treatments plans. This cost doesn’t include the costs of medication for my mental health and the medical needs of my son and husband. While I am fortunate to work from home, most of my earnings go towards medical and living expenses, leaving little room for saving. In the past, any savings I managed were often used to visit my family abroad, who would even lend me money to make these trips possible.

The Catalyst:

Last summer was severely challenging. The extreme heat and humidity of the extended Japanese summer exacerbated my condition, leaving me virtually housebound for nearly six months due to severe pain and swelling. This isolation took a significant toll on my physical and mental health. Even now, with cooler weather, I struggle to walk long distances or carry groceries home, (even with a shopping cart), both which often cause immense pain.

Why a Car is Essential:

Ease of Mobility:

A car would significantly reduce the physical strain of walking long distances and carrying heavy items, making it easier to manage daily tasks and errands.

Access to Medical Care:

Having a car would allow me to attend medical appointments and receive treatments more easily, ensuring I receive timely care without the added stress of navigating public transport or trudging through poor weather when already in pain.

Enhanced Quality of Life:

With a car, I could take my son to larger parks and nature reserves, medical appointments, and social activities, allowing us to spend more quality time together and participate in a wider range of experiences which are impossible for us to do now.

Weather Protection:

During extreme weather conditions, such as Japan's hot and humid summers and rigid and dry winters, a car would provide a safe and comfortable means of transportation, helping to prevent the severe pain and swelling that exacerbates my conditions when I am outdoors for long periods. Public transportation can also be quite crowded here, which can make it even more difficult, and dangerous, for me to navigate.

Emergency Situations:

A car would offer a reliable means of transportation in case of emergencies, of which there’s been a few, ensuring that I can quickly and safely reach necessary destinations without relying on others.

Seeking Independence:

My current situation involves family dynamics that make it difficult to rely on their support for many things, including for help with a car. A vehicle would drastically improve my quality of life, allowing me to manage daily tasks, participate in my son's activities, visit friends who live far away, and regain a sense of freedom from many of my struggles.

Your Support:

I am aiming to raise $9-10,000 to purchase a reliable medium sized car (easier for me to get in and out of) that will help me navigate these challenges. Your contributions will directly impact my ability to live a more independent and fulfilling life. Any amount, no matter how small, will make a difference. Any left over donations will be used to help pay for medical, living and car running costs.

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Thank you for taking the time to read my story. Your kindness and generosity mean the world to me. Please consider donating and sharing my campaign with others. Thank you