Nikole's Ankle Can't Support Her. Can You?

My name is Nikole Bankowski and I truly appreciate you taking a moment to read my story. In 2015 I had an accident where I broke my right ankle in three places, and thus began the saga of five ankle surgeries, two back surgeries, and countless hours of physical therapy. I was able to go back to work as a diesel mechanic after my initial recovery in early 2016, but working on my feet for over eight hours a day started taking a toll. That's when I started experiencing chronic pain and swelling, which let me to seek out a new ankle specialist. Between 2019 and 2022, I had four subsequent ankle surgeries which led to more complications. I developed chronic regional pain syndrome (CRPS) and chronic tendonitis. I had a spinal cord stimulator implanted in 2021 to treat the CRPS; however, the chronic arthritis, bone pain and tendon pain have prevented me from the ability to work even a desk job. I started my application process for Social Security Disability in July of 2020. The advocate group I entrusted with this process completely neglected their responsibility and never even submitted the initial application to the state. I was unaware of this until I secured legitimate legal aid in December of 2022.

My fight for Social Security Disability has now entered year 4. While the new legal team has been proactive, the process is still debilitatingly slow. For the last two years I have been living off of what was originally intentioned to be my retirement, but the funds are now almost depleted. I am currently waiting on a hearing for Social Security, but have been advised that it could take 4 to 6 months. This has led me, after much deliberation, to start this campaign. I currently live on a very tight budget of $3000 a month and am asking for help to get me through until a final decision is made. Any money donated will go towards rent, monthly bills, and accrued medical bills.

I have proudly supported myself my whole life. I've always had active jobs with considerable physical demands. At age 36, I even went back to trade school to become a diesel mechanic. It's been quite an adjustment accepting my physical limitations. Losing my independence has been a humbling experience. I cannot overstate the importance of my personal relationships with friends and family, and I thank you for reading this far and considering a donation. Any amount you are willing to contribute is so greatly appreciated, and if you aren't able to contribute money at this time, please share with your friends and family. It would mean the world to me.