Please Help Us Take Our Kids to the Fair

We moved to beautiful Shelby, NC on May 1, 2021. Our home is less than 5 minutes from the Cleveland County Fairgrounds. I’ve heard this is an amazing fair, one of the best in the state, so I promised my kids we would go once it came back. There had been no fair for 2 years due to COVID. What I could not foresee was that when the fair finally came around, our family would be in one of the most difficult seasons in years. I had begun a “part-time” job, which was giving me full-time hours. That stress, combined with the kids going back to school and all the home responsibilities, resulted in a relapse in my mental health. I struggle with bipolar 1, among other diagnoses, and stress is always my biggest trigger. I had the worst manic episode in years, which resulted in my doctor writing me a note of resignation from my job, and requiring my husband to take FMLA to help care for me. I was not supposed to be left alone as I stabilized, and I needed help around the house to keep my stress under control. To make things more difficult, my psychiatrist, who controls my medications, had to go on medical leave. I have only seen her once since August 19th, although I am supposed to see her weekly. We have had no income at all since mid August, and we do not know when my husband can return to work. We know that the fair is not a “need;” however, my children are begging to go as I had promised them. They have been burdened also as we have struggled to buy groceries and pay bills…and, of course, the biggest disappointment for them was getting our phones cut off. The stress of my recovery can take a toll on them, especially my older ones. They need some fun and lighthearted family time out of the house. I am asking for $200 to take them to the fair, which starts tomorrow, September 29. Six wristbands will cost $120, and I would love to invite my 19 year old daughter who lives about 75 miles away. Beyond admission, of course, the kids want to play games and eat a little fair food, which is where the $200 goal comes from. If you are able to help and God leads you to, please consider blessing my children during this difficult time. If you cannot give (and we understand because nearly everyone is in a financial struggle!) we appreciate your prayers. We are so grateful for all of you!