My name is Alyssa, and I’ve been a nurse for eight years at Iowa Lutheran Hospital on 2North, a medical surgical unit. I’ve always been someone who works hard—since seventh grade, I’ve held at least one job, often more. I’m fiercely independent and rarely ask for help, so reaching out like this is not easy for me. But right now, I’m facing a situation I can’t manage alone.

When I was 11, I had back surgery and was told I’d likely need another as an adult. For years, I managed with occasional physical therapy, but a few months ago, my pain returned and quickly worsened. Despite trying everything—exercises, a back brace, new medications—my condition declined. There was a week when I couldn’t walk or dress myself, and my boyfriend Ryker, who I’ve been with for a year and a half, had to help me with everything. An MRI revealed severe spinal stenosis, and I’m now waiting to see a neurosurgeon. I can’t stand for more than a few minutes or walk more than 200 feet without extreme pain. I sleep on the couch because lying flat is unbearable, and I rely on a wheelchair to get around outside the house. Not being able to help with housework, care for my dogs, or cook has been incredibly frustrating.

Ryker and I share our home with our cat Squid and two dogs—Hera, a German Shepherd/Husky mix, and Lyra, a Great Dane. I’m currently on short term disability, which means a significant pay cut, and I’m worried about how we’ll cover rent, utilities, groceries, medical expenses, student loans, and car payments while I’m unable to work. I never imagined I’d be in a position to ask for help, but anything you can contribute would mean the world to us. Thank you for reading and for any support you can offer.