Hello everyone,

My name is Natalie Vanance, although I go by 'Bekka' to many of my friends.

I am a 47-year-old transgender woman, and for most of the last 5 years I was a committed stay-at-home mother to my daughter, who is non-verbal and has diagnosed special needs. During this time, I lived with my daughter, and my (now ex-)partner, in their parents' house, in our own private basement suite.

Due to a criminal incident in September where I was the victim, I was forced to move away from my daughter, with no resources or savings. My now ex-partner has decided to dissolve our engagement, and our relationship since that attack.

I did not realize how badly the incident would affect me, and I have been diagnosed by my NP with heavily increased anxiety and depression and often find myself scared, or extremely anxious when I need to leave my new apartment. It is likely I have some form of PTSD, although I do not have a full diagnosis at this time.

I do not know how long it will be until I can rejoin the work force, nor how long it will take me to recover from the trauma of the incident, so I will be living on my own with no resources outside of basic government assistance payments, and a stipend provided by my ex.

Funds that are sent to be will be used to pay for my groceries, utilities, and medications that I need that are not covered under Canadian medical plans or assistance (such as my Estradiol, essential to my transition).

Additionally, as many of my clothes do not fit do to a recent significant weight loss, I will need a new wardrobe of basics, so I will feel move confident and secure leaving the house. I will also be using funds for my laser treatments, so I can properly pass for my safety. I hope this will also allow me to move back into my career when I have had the time I need to heal.

I have incurred significant debts due to my inability to work since the attack in September, as well as expenses due to my emergency solo move, so when possible, I will use funds to keep the payments current so I can continue to take advantage of emergency credit instruments if needed (I have currently maxxed everything out).

I need to be around for my daughter, I need to survive this so I can be back in her life. I need to be a mother for her, the mother I always wanted for myself. To do that, I need stability, security, and safety so I can heal.

Thank you everyone. Truly.