Stephanie's Ankle Surgery Fund

My name is Stephanie. I am a 6 year breast cancer survivor. As a side effect of my oral chemotherapy, I now have brittle bones. Three months ago I broke my ankle and tore a tendon. The good news is that the break healed. The bad news is that I have to have surgery on July 17th to repair the torn tendon. 

I am on social security disability for 2 reasons. One is that I never got my energy back after having done cancer treatement. The 2nd reason is that I also have Crohn's disease which is quite debilitating. I do, however, work 2 days a week for a nonprofit organization. I am an independent contractor there. Therefore, I will not get paid during the month I have to take off for the surgery. Unfortunately, like probably 50% of Americans, I live paycheck to paycheck. Going without a month's income will be financially devastating for me. 

Pictured here is my Chihuahua pack. So, not only do I support myself, but them, as well. I am single and estranged (not by choice) from almost my entire family that lives closeby. I do have some friends and volunteers from my UU congregation who are willing to help with chores and such. 

Because I will have to be completely off my feet for 2 to 4 weeks, I will have to hire someone to take care of my dogs. Additionally, I have to somehow come up with the month's income I will miss out on. 

My upcoming surgery is not elective. I will lose the ability to walk properly if I do not get it fixed now. I am very worried and scared that if I cannot raise any money that I will get so behind with my bills, mortgage and car payment, that I could very well end up losing my home of 20 years or my car that I need to get to my job. 

I would be incredibly grateful for any and all help. This ask is not easy for me. I'm highly independent and feel ashamed to even have to ask for help. But, here I am. I won't make it without help. 

I thank you so much if you've read this far. I promise that I will somehow and in some way pay it forward when my ankle is healed. Thanks for reading!