*image from april 2025* My name is Gabrielle, I'm 19 and a freshman at JCCC. My mother Kathy has battled with chronic illness for the past 5 years, but this past April she needed a very invasive back surgery. Laminectomy and fusion of 8 vertebrae, she was in surgery for 8 hours and stayed in the hospital for a week. As a household of two with no family close by, I am the only physical and financial support for my mother. This year has been extremely challenging in many ways for me and my mother. I've worked really hard to help out with bills so we're able to pay rent in full and on time, so all my mother has to focus on is her health. Unfortunately, I also experienced health issues this past month, missing out on crucial work days. This post is my last resort, I'm overwhelmed and don't want to repeat past cycles of financial distress. I appreciate any amount you're willing to offer to my family, and thank you for reading my story. *photo from april surgery