Hello, my name is Valerie. I am a single mother to my son, Elijah, and this past year has been one of the most challenging we've ever faced. As a mom, I work hard to provide a safe, stable home, food on the table, and everything my son and I need, while also supporting him through his mental health struggles.

Last year our world shifted dramatically. In July, I underwent surgery to remove a large kidney stone that had been growing for years without my knowledge. Since then, I've been focused on getting healthier and continuing my weight-loss journey so I can be here to watch my son grow. It has been physically exhausting, but necessary.

Meanwhile, Elijah has been dealing with anxiety, depression, and IBS, which have made school and daily life difficult for him. Between his medical needs and mine, our emotional and financial stress has grown tremendously.

Earlier this December, I had another medical emergency that sent me to the ER with severe pain. I arrived around 11:30 p.m. on Saturday and remained in the hospital until Tuesday evening. The cause was a hernia I first learned about during my weight-loss journey. While doctors were able to temporarily reduce the swelling, I now need surgery to repair it. On top of that, I will be undergoing a second medically necessary surgery soon after. Altogether I will be unable to work for approximately six weeks while recovering.

As a single-income household, my paycheck is critical. It is how I keep our home, pay our bills, and take care of my son. Although I do have family, they are unable to support us financially, and losing my income -- even for a short time -- puts us in an extremely vulnerable situation.

I am not someone who asks for help. My family knows I will stretch my last dollar and try to handle everything on my own. But right now, with two surgeries ahead of me and weeks of recovery, I simply cannot do this alone. It's humbling to ask for support, but it's necessary for me and my son's stability.

If you are able to contribute in any way, it would mean the world to us. Your support will help us stay afloat while I recover and regain my health. From our family to yours, thank you so much for anything you can give.