My name is Zhanna and I am a professional belly dancer who works hard for her living, working late nights, driving long distances, dealing with all sorts of people and restaurant owners, clients, event planners, musician, djs, always trying to be on time, driving and parking myself (very difficult in NYC), carrying my suitcases and props, running around in a costume and heels in cold winters between the gigs, etc. Although this job has been my passion for many years, it can be very stressful.

Sunday night when I came back home from work, I opened the door of my apartment with a key and noticed that the chair was blocking my way. With my side vision, I also noticed that things were disheveled, thrown on the floor. Immediately, I realized that something wasn’t right and a wave of fear went through my body. I immediately went to get the doorman to help me walk through the apartment because I was afraid that someone could still be inside. The doorman was hesitant at first, but he came with me to the apartment to find a broken window in the bedroom and a mess in my apartment with things missing. At that time, I knew that the apartment was robbed. I called the police immediately. They are currently conducting an investigation, but it’s a long shot.

The robbers took all my cash savings, jewelry, and purses, leaving me with $8000 in total damage, including irreplaceable jewelry items given to me by my mother and grandmother. I feel very vulnerable and distressed right now, knowing that someone has been watching me to learn my schedule, going to bed and knowing that someone has been in my room, went through all my stuff. I feel violated. And of course, I am upset about the financial damage this has caused me. If you have it in your heart to help me recover from this loss, I will greatly appreciate it. Any contribution, big or small, would really help me get back on my feet.

And more than anything, please be safe and vigilant. It seems like crime is on the rise these days.

Thank you for your support from the bottom of my heart!