My Story

Hi everyone,

My name is Steve, and after years of struggling in silence, I've finally found the courage to reach out for help. For over three decades, I've been living with Complex Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (CPTSD) stemming from nearly eight years of severe physical and emotional abuse starting from nine years of age — abuse inflicted by someone who was supposed to protect and nurture me.

This trauma has touched every corner of my life. It has derailed career opportunities, destroyed relationships, strained family bonds, and left me struggling with my very sense of identity. But I refuse to let my past define my future any longer.

I am a single father to an amazing teenage son, and for the past 23 years, I've dedicated my career as a special education teacher to supporting students with disabilities. Every day, I help young people overcome their challenges and reach their potential. Now, it's time for me to turn that same compassion and determination toward healing myself—not just for me, but for my son who deserves a father who is whole and present.

Why This Matters Now

Over the past 30 years, I've worked with numerous counsellors who could explain why I struggle with mental health challenges, but there's been a devastating gap where actual healing should happen. While I understand that managing CPTSD will be a lifelong journey, I desperately need to learn how to live with this part of myself while building a stable, joyful life for my son and me.

The breakthrough moment came when I found a mental health specialist who can properly diagnose my complex trauma and create a real path to recovery. For the first time in decades, I have genuine hope for healing.

The Challenge I'm Facing

Unfortunately, effective trauma therapy comes at a significant cost—approximately $300 per session. Even with a Mental Health Care Plan, maintaining the consistent treatment schedule necessary for real progress is far beyond my financial reach as a single parent. Additionally, if intensive inpatient treatment becomes necessary at a private facility, I simply cannot afford it.

This isn't about wanting a quick fix or an easy way out. This is about accessing the professional help that could transform not just my life, but create a healthier, more stable environment for my son.

How Your Donation Will Be Used

Every dollar donated will go directly toward:

• Therapy sessions with my specialized trauma counsellor

• Potential inpatient treatment if intensive therapy becomes necessary

• Continued healing journey to ensure consistent, long-term progress

Your contribution won't just help me heal—it will help break the cycle of trauma and create a better future for the next generation.

A Heartfelt Thank You

I know that asking for help isn't easy, and giving is a deeply personal choice. The fact that you've taken the time to read my story means more than you know. Whether you're able to contribute financially, share this campaign, or simply send positive thoughts my way, your support gives me strength.

After 30 years of searching for answers, I finally have a clear path forward. With your help, I can walk that path toward healing, wholeness, and the life my son and I deserve.

Thank you for considering a donation and thank you for believing that healing is possible.

With deepest gratitude,

Steve