My name is Alicia Mackey, and this is one of the hardest things I’ve ever had to do. I never thought I would reach a point where I’d be asking strangers for help, but life has a way of humbling you in ways you never expect.

When I was 16, a drunk driver hit me and changed everything. The doctors told me it was just a sprain, but it wasn’t. My back was actually broken in two places. I was young and wanted so badly to be “normal,” so I pushed through the pain and pretended I was okay.

But the pain never left.

By the time I was 30, it controlled my life. Simple things standing, walking, doing daily tasks became overwhelming. After a couple of surgeries, I had to leave the job I loved at Intel. Losing my career felt like losing a part of who I was.

Over the years, things got harder. I went through five major back surgeries. I’ve had more medical appointments than I can count, and many nights where pain kept me awake until morning. Eventually, I had to accept permanent disability. It’s something I never wanted, but I had no choice.

Despite everything, I tried to prepare for the future. I saved, budgeted, planned, and worked with what I had. But living with a serious medical condition takes a toll on every part of your life not just your body. It drains your finances, stability, and sometimes your hope.

Why I Need Help Now:

Starting January 1, 2026, my disability income will be cut in half. When that happens, I won’t be able to keep up with even the basics:

• My mortgage

• Groceries and essentials

• Utilities

• Medical bills, treatments, and preparing for another surgery

I’m single, I have no children, and after losing my mom, my only close family I don’t have anyone left to lean on. My home is the only steady thing in my life, and I’m terrified of losing it.

How You Can Help:

Even the smallest amount truly makes a difference:

• $25 helps me buy groceries

• $100 helps cover utilities and medical co-pays

• $500 helps me stay in my home

Every donation, no matter the size, is a lifeline right now. And if you’re not able to donate, sharing my story helps more than you know.

From My Heart:

Asking for help does not come easy for me. I’ve spent my entire life trying to be strong, trying not to let my disability define me. But this is a moment where I can’t do it alone.

If you’ve read this far, thank you. Your kindness, your compassion, and simply taking a moment to hear my story means more than I can express. Your support whether through donating or sharing could be what helps me make it through this incredibly difficult time.

Thank you for giving me a little bit of hope when everything feels so uncertain.

With sincere gratitude,

Alicia Mackey