Hi, I’m Captain JayR — a 61-year-old journalist, independent media producer, and licensed Dutch sea captain (Master 500 GT for traditional sailing vessels).

For most of my life, the sea has been my anchor — I started sailing 49 years ago. But since 2020, the storms have hit hard: first Long Covid, which left me unable to sail commercially for several years. Then, just as I began rebuilding my career in independent journalism and launched my Dutch media business in spring 2024, the government struck again — deregistering me from the population system (BRP).

Right now, I’m in a life-threatening situation: Without registration, I lose healthcare, banking, and even the legal right to exist in society.

The Problem: Schrödinger’s Residency (more about this legal dilema here).

I live year-round on my 37-foot wooden Dutch 2-master, built in 1961 — my only home.

And here’s the paradox:

(A) Harbour rules say you cannot sleep on board more than 14 days in a row.

(B) Yet because I live here all year, the government treats it as my official address, but not willing to do the official steps herefor.

This contradiction got me deregistered. Officially, I don’t exist. Tax refunds are blocked (since 01/2025), I can’t access healthcare, and my basic survival is threatened.

There is a legal way forward: the harbour rules allow an exception if the College of Mayor and Aldermen (College B&W) approves it. But their decision has been postponed for months. While they delay, I lose everything.

What I Need urgently

To survive the next 6-12 months, to keep up the fight for legal recognition and to continue my journalistic work, I urgently need as a starter ≈ €1,800 net/month (= €2,610 gross incl. tax).

Breakdown:

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Total: €2,610/month (gross, incl. taxes)

Why It Matters!

I have dedicated over 21 years — more than 77,900 hours — to independent journalism, podcasts, and writings on mental health, compassion, and empowerment.

Your support will:

This is not just about me !! - Across Europe, 1.24 million people are cut off from registration systems. Globally, more than 800 million live without access to banking, healthcare, or even an official identity.

That’s why I call this initiative “Bridge of Life” — to raise awareness and support others trapped in the same bureaucratic nightmare.

How You Can Contribute ?

Every donation brings me closer to safety and stability. Please:

This is my rescue mission — and your support is the lifeline that keeps me safely afloat. - Thanks in advance for giving attention to.

Warm greetings,

Captain JayR