Dear friends and community,

This is hard for me to write, but I’ve reached a place where I need to ask for help. Over the past year, our little family has weathered more than we ever could have imagined — and right now, we’re facing a financial hurdle we can’t overcome alone.

During the past year, we’ve been navigating financial instability, health challenges, and in October the loss of 60–70% of my income due to the sudden CareOregon Medicaid cuts that ended payments for therapy I provide to OHP clients. I’ve been working as hard as I can to rebuild my private practice and create new income streams, but with a 3-year-old, a 3-month-old, chronic pain, and autoimmune issues, I haven’t been able to close the gap fast enough.

Three weeks ago, while driving to visit my family in Ashland with our 3 year old (for what was supposed to be a long weekend), my car broke down on I-5 and we were stranded for eight days. I missed a full week of work, and after multiple tows and multiple failed repair attempts, we learned that the car suffered a perfect storm of catastrophic failures that destroyed some of the most essential and expensive components. The total repair cost is $5,172, which is far beyond what we can manage right now — especially after falling behind on rent, utilities, and basic necessities during this time, and yet it’s essential we get our car back.

We’re asking for help to raise around $6,500 to cover:

-the car repair

-rent and utilities for the month

-groceries, diapers, and basic living expenses

-the trip back to Southern Oregon to retrieve the car once it’s fixed

It’s vulnerable to ask, especially as a social worker and therapist when I’m so much more comfortable and used to helping others get their needs met — but, especially since becoming a parent, I’m learning to receive more of the care and support that flows in both directions, and I’m so grateful for every bit of it.

Any amount truly helps, and sharing this with others is also a gift. Thank you for reading, for caring, and for whatever you’re able to offer. Your support means the world to us right now.

With love and gratitude,

Sundaura