Bill Withers wrote the song "Lean on me" which was released in 1972 the year I was born, which is both ironic and actually very comforting .  I have sang that song, like most of us, always thinking I would be there for others, but not actually thinking I would be the one asking.  Today, I need a friend to lean on.

Some of you know I have suffered from medical conditions since the 1990's related to muscle and nerve disorders.  However, most of you probably weren't aware, I tried as much as possible to keep these conditions quiet and hidden.  

For 20+ years I was able to work within the limitations of these conditions in the hospitality Industry.  I was able to create a truly enjoyable and fulfilling career within the hospitality Industry as a Meeting and Event Planner.  I am so grateful for all of the amazing memories, experiences and events. Mostly, I am grateful for the people I worked with and the wonderful places I experienced both domestically and Internationally along that 20 year journey.

Two years ago, my condition became more debilitating and I was no longer able to work in a full time capacity. My journey was far from over, only re-defined.  I operated my own company EcoWithin Events, so I could have more control and flexibility over my own schedule. EcoWithin was and will always be a wonderful and empowering experience.  My favorite part was being able to give back to the community, by donating post event items to local nursing facilities.

Last February, I came down with pneumonia and spent a week in the hospital.  It was a true "eye opener" as I finally realized how fragile and vulnerable we all truly are.  I actually didn't realize how serious that episode was until I was released and heard stories of things that happened over those 7 days, that I didn't remember happening.  I was unable to work for 6 months while recovering and managing my underlying condition. During that time I lived off savings and pulled from my retirement account to pay bills.

I knew I needed income, but couldn't physically go back to the event industry's long hours.  I decided I would make a little money working as a nanny for a very special 6 year old.  I worked 12 hours a week in yet another rewarding job until again, my body threw another challenge my way.  I was informed in October 2016 that my lumbar spine was fractured and that I had stage 2 Spondylolisthesis that would require anterior and posterior spinal fusion.  My cervical neck also experienced trauma, likely requiring surgery as well.  Once again I found myself unable to work in any capacity.  I pulled my retirement funds again, living off them and cutting everything I could to make the money stretch for as long as possible.

I have filed for disability and I have since had to hire a disability lawyer to help.  To my surprise it takes years to be approved for disability with my situation and is almost impossible without a lawyer.  

I now face the hardest and humbling part. I have almost depleted my retirement and I am no longer able to pay my bills and rent.  In March, I will under go my first spinal fusion surgery with a second likely to follow 6-9 months later.  

I could really use your help , if you are able to support my situation.  Please know that any money donated will go towards helping pay my housing and medical bills.

In return, my thank you back once I am recovered, will be to continue to do things that support community and other people.  Life can change in an instant, it's a bit cliché but always live for the moment.




Thank you for being there for me to LEAN ON!

Smiles and hugs,

Jenny Dunton