Keep me in my house while I appeal eviction.

Hi, my name is Cynthia, and I never thought I would be asking for this kind of help on social media. Please know I am very humbled and distraught by doing this. I don't know what else to do.

On December 9th, I broke my arm after stepping into a hole that was hidden by leaves. The hole existed because of my landlord's negligence in maintaining the common area of my property. The broken arm resulted in requiring a total reverse shoulder replacement.

I am very fortunate it wasn't my dominant arm. I have been self-employed as an electrologist for 36 years. It is my passion. I am able to help others feel better about themselves. It is not "just hair" to my clients. It is the most rewarding job I have ever had the honor to do. But, two arms are necessary to perform my job.

I have rented this house for 13 years. I have never missed paying my rent. 13 years! How many landlords can say that? I notified my landlord of my accident the next day. I had to wait 9 days to have the surgery. I notified my landlord that I would not be able to pay January's rent, but that I had every intention of paying it as soon as I could work again. I also asked him to inform his insurance company if he had not already so that I could be compensated for missed wages and out-of-pocket medical expenses. He chose to ignore my request.

On January 27th, I received a summons that he was suing me for January's rent and eviction. We went to court on February 7th. He won. The magistrate was empathic to my situation but made it clear that he couldn't rule based on hardship. I have until February 19th to be completely out or file an appeal. As of now, time is winding down, and I have been unsuccessful in finding somewhere to move. My only choice now is to hopefully buy more time by appealing. Appealing costs money upfront. I have to pay what I owe for January, plus court costs, plus February's rent.

I was able to work a couple of days before court, but since then I haven't because I've been either looking at housing, applying for housing, talking to property management companies, or packing (which is taking a toll on my new shoulder). I also have to go to physical therapy 2 days a week, and this week I also have to have a much-needed medical procedure performed that will take up most of the day plus some time to recover.

Asking for help is hard. But living out of my car will be harder. Living in the cheapest hotel possible would reduce the money I have saved for a deposit on a new place. I work from home, so I would also not be able to work. I have always believed when a door closes, a window is opened. I'm hoping to find that window.

Anything you can donate will help and be greatly appreciated. Please don't feel bad if you are unable. There have been times when I could give generously, and times when I couldn't spare a dime. It's a lot to ask of people. Whether you choose to donate or not, please keep me in your prayers. Prayers have seen me through many obstacles in the past.

Thank you for taking the time to read this. And if you're so inclined, please share.