Hi! Firstly, I just want to thank those who have contributed to my last fundraiser, I was blown away and deeply moved by the generosity of strangers, I'm forever grateful that you've restored my faith in humanity. I've copy and pasted some of the text to give you a back story on my situation. I've been very hesitant to do one of these but I've reached a point where my choices have dwindled and I need to reach out of my isolation for help. I don't have any family so resorting to fundraising is my last recourse. My health has taken a turn for the worse & I have been struggling with my disability for over a year now to the point where I can't walk half a block without being in immense pain. For those that don't know, years ago I was hospitalized for a very a rare condition called fungal osteomyelitis, for several months I was on IV antibiotics and antifungals to no avail. The fungus corroded 2 of the disks in my spine until one day the doctors told me they found an antifungal that actually worked for me. After 4 different stents in various hospitals and 1 nursing home, I was finally able to go home. Before discharging me, the doctor warned me that although I wouldn't be affected right away, some time in the future, I will have to find a pain management doctor because the pain will become chronic, it took about 7 years for that to come to fruition. Now, I haven't left my home besides in a vehicle a couple times (once for a doctor) for

over a year now. Everyday tasks seem impossible at times. I'm working with a lawyer with the homeless advocacy center to get my SSI disability claim to get approved but I've been told they're extremely backed up and that I might be waiting for another year or more. I've been trying to supplement my income by selling things online but it hasn't been enough to get by. One of the main hindrances in my life right now is the state of my living situation. I'm mortified to share this but I've been struggling with my house overrun by hoarding. Any progress I make seems to be insignificant and I'm totally overwhelmed. It's been a few years now, I haven't let anyone see the state of my place because I'm very embarrassed that I've let it go to this extent but living with my disability has not helped matters. To make things worse, I just received a pink slip from PG&E (225) stating that I must pay my overdue electric and gas bill to avoid getting shut off. I've looked into the costs of hiring a team of cleaners that specialize in hoarding cases and it is way beyond my means. (7000-10,000) If you have the means and could contribute however small or large, I would be so grateful. Much love to you, Karah