Hi all! I am Serena and if you know me, you know I absolutely hate hand outs and asking for help.

Unfortunately, I have suffered a personal loss that goes beyond my means and my insurance won't cover this type of loss or clean up. I am asking you all for some assistance.

This all started when I moved to Utah and had my mattress shipped. The cover got dirty during transit, so I removed it to clean it. However by removing that cover, I unknowingly released fiberglass into my new home - I had no idea until 2 months later. Over that time, the fiberglass spread as I unpacked and washed my belongings.  Through my research, I have found that manufacturers use fiberglass as a cost-effective insulation. As long as the mattress/mattress cover stays intact, the fiberglass should not pose any threats. I did not know this and by the time I learned, it was too late.

I quickly got rid of the mattress and purchased a brand new bed set. But while cleaning and preparing for my new bed, fibers covered everything, upstairs and downstairs. I thought I could manage the clean-up myself, so I removed all of my furniture and bagged the clothing that would need to be discarded. I started vacuuming using an enclosed HEPA system (as recommended) and quickly the microscopic particles went through my tyvek suit, clothing, and embedded in my skin. It was then that I realized this was beyond my capabilities and that I need professional help.

The cost of decontaminating and cleaning my home professionally is quoted to be $13,000. I've spent more than $5k in the last week on disposable PPE, clothing, and an airbnb as it is unsafe for me and my 4 cats to return home. I've had to cancel prior arrangements and appointments that have cost me over $1k in cancellation fees. 

I have done everything in my power to try to manage the fiberglass situation. Unfortunately, I have exhausted my personal resources. At this time, I am asking for any financial assistance to help cover the remaining $8000 in clean-up costs.

Thank you for your generosity and support.

P.S. My venmo @serenajuma

Serena