UPDATE: FEBRUARY 5, 2026

I was finally able to return to work part-time and begin covering rent again — and for a moment, things felt a little more stable.

But right now, I’ve hit an unexpected medical setback.

I’m currently on short-term medical leave due to thoracic outlet syndrome, a serious complication affecting my dialysis access arm. This has made it unsafe for me to work temporarily, and the missed income has created an urgent gap in my ability to cover rent and basic living expenses.

At this moment, I desperately need $700 to stay afloat while I recover and return to work.

Anything you can spare — even $5 or $10 — truly helps more than I can express.

Hi, I’m Jocelyn — and I’m Still Fighting, But Finally Catching My Breath

In March 2023, I was diagnosed with end-stage kidney disease — and every day since has been a battle for my life, my family, and our future.

There were moments I didn’t know how I’d survive: a stroke, job loss, financial collapse, and the daily grind of dialysis. But thanks to the incredible generosity of friends, family, and strangers, I’ve made it through the darkest days. Over $17,000 was raised to help keep us afloat — and I am endlessly grateful to every single person who shared, donated, or simply offered a kind word.

Today, I’m grateful to say I’m no longer in desperate need of emergency funds. I recently started a part-time job that, for now, helps cover our basic living expenses — including rent. It’s a lifeline, and as long as I can keep working, we’re holding steady.

But I still need help — just on a smaller scale — to prepare for the road ahead.

Why I’m Still Fundraising: A Recovery Fund for What Comes Next

Even with Medicare, there are still critical costs that I need to cover:

$3,000 for transplant recovery – This will help me survive the weeks or months post-surgery when I’ll be unable to work and need to focus solely on healing.

$900 in out-of-pocket medical costs – This includes expenses not covered by Medicare, such as co-pays.

Emergency cushion – In the event that Medicaid is ever disrupted or unexpected costs arise, this fund ensures I don’t fall back into crisis during such a fragile time.

While things have stabilized, life with a chronic illness is still unpredictable. This fundraiser gives me the breathing room I need to recover safely when the transplant comes — without the added fear of financial collapse.

A Journey of Gratitude, Resilience, and Hope

I’m still creating, still dreaming, and still fighting. I’ve begun publishing books through Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing, working toward long-term financial independence through my writing. And your continued support gives me the time and space to pursue that dream.

I can’t say this enough: thank you for being part of this journey. Whether you donated $5, $500, or simply shared my story, you helped carry me through some of the hardest moments of my life.

Now, I just need a little more help to cross this next bridge.

Every Dollar and Share Still Matters

If you’re able to contribute toward this updated goal of $3,900, you’ll be directly helping me secure a safe recovery period and cover transplant-related expenses. And if you can’t give right now, sharing this campaign with your network means just as much.

From the bottom of my heart, thank you for walking beside me through every twist and turn of this rollercoaster. Your support means everything.

With gratitude,

Jocelyn