Hello, my name is Andromeda Phoenix, and I’m a 22-year-old, Trans-Nonbinary (She/They), Autistic, disabled person of color.

From a young age, I faced significant health challenges, undergoing multiple life-threatening surgeries. But the trauma didn’t end with my physical health. I also endured physical, sexual, and emotional abuse at the hands of my own family.

When I was 17, my mother passed away from COVID-19. I moved in with my sister afterward, who, despite claiming to accept my sexuality, was one of the primary sources of emotional and physical abuse in my life. A pivotal moment for me was when I wore flower earrings for my senior photos and expressed that I wouldn’t retake them to meet the expectations of our family. My sister responded by threatening my life with a knife. That moment made it clear to me that I could not stay in that environment without risking my safety.

I left soon after, becoming effectively homeless. For nearly three years, I survived by couch-surfing with friends and pushing myself to stay in school. I attended Murray State University in Kentucky, but due to financial hardships as an independent student, compounded by discrimination related to my gender identity and race, I was forced to drop out and move to Chicago.

I’ve been in Chicago for a year now, and as a survivor, I’ve had to suppress the physical and emotional toll my body has taken over the years. I’ve been pushing myself to the brink, and I’m starting to see the long-term effects of this. My current job has exacerbated many of my existing disabilities, causing physical harm and emotional strain, while also subjecting me to constant discrimination. Additionally, my hours have been drastically reduced, making it nearly impossible to afford rent or basic living expenses.

While I am actively searching for a job that better accommodates my disabilities, I’m at a point where I need help to cover my rent and utilities. Without this support, I risk facing further harm to my health and safety. I’m reaching out in the hope that your generosity can help me stay afloat while I work to rebuild my life.

Thank you for taking the time to read my story. Any assistance, no matter how small, would be deeply appreciated.