I figured this was worth a shot. I appreciate everyone who has kept me in their prayers; please continue. And the friends and family who have already helped, I can't wait until I am in a better situation, and I plan to pay you back for the help you have provided.

This is exactly embarrassing to me to have to take these measures to get more help.

So, on June 11th, I was on vacation. I stood up, and my knee popped. I didn't think too much of it other than it starting to hurt more over time. After a week, I finally went to the ER. They took X-rays and set me up to see an orthopedic surgeon. I had the cartilage separated from behind my knee. So, after anti-inflammatory and cortisone shots and an MRI, the surgeon said I needed a knee arthroscopy. I had that surgery on September 4th, 2024; that was the first day of work I missed for the injury. The surgeon said I should only need to be off work for 2 weeks. (I only had 17 hours of paid sick time left for the year from work, and I had just used my vacation time in June.)

Well, after surgery, I noticed it hurt differently and was not getting better, so we tried more shots; they didn't help. He said it will take more time. So, every 2 weeks, I would go back to see the surgeon so he could assess the situation. I was not able to put weight for a length of time on my right leg because of the knee pain. As time keeps going, my savings have dwindled away, and thank the Lord, my mother has been able to help a little.

Just before Thanksgiving, my job let me know they couldn't wait any longer for me to come back to work. So, they said once I have recovered and get released from the doctor, I can apply to come back.

The surgeon said a knee replacement is the only thing that will help. So, originally, I was scheduled for December 4th for surgery, and my insurance denied it. So now, with no income, I had to apply for Medicaid. Thankfully, I had to have no income for 3 months, and I was there. So, it took a month to get Medicaid going, and now I have total knee replacement surgery scheduled for February 5th. Recovery time is 3 to 6 months. I was finally approved for a SNAP card for food the first week of December. I cannot get unemployment because I can't return to a job standing all day, and disability will not approve because I have to be off for a year before being considered; then it could take a few more years to get approved for disability.

To have Medicaid cover the surgery, doctor visits, and physical therapy, I cannot have a workable income.

I have already maxed out my credit cards and can't afford to pay the bills. My mother, who is retired, is helping me try to keep my car. At this point, anything is a helpful blessing.

I know God is 100% in control and that everything happens for a reason.

If you can only offer prayers, they are greatly appreciated. If you have an extra few dollars, I thank you from the bottom of my heart; you have a place in my heart forever.

I understand more of how there are so many homeless in the world, knowing they all have different stories, but the way the system works doesn't help too much.

God chooses what you go through, but you choose how you go through it.