Support Candice's Healing and Business Recovery

Hi beautiful humans,

I’m Candice. I’m a Black queer woman, former teacher, and a small business owner in Charlotte, NC. I’m the founder and CEO of Imagine Impact , a boutique nonprofit executive search and consulting firm. I’m reaching out for your support as I navigate the challenges of recovering from serious health issues while trying to rebuild my business.

Personal Story:

After a miscarriage in 2018, I developed severe cramps, excessive menstrual bleeding, significant weight gain, anemia, fainting spells, and vertigo. In 2019, I sought support from doctors but my reproductive health issues would go undiagnosed and appropriately treated for three years.

In 2021, I endured my first of several 3-6 month long menstrual periods. After several ER visits, two IUDs, various medications, and changing doctors twice, I finally had a plan. I was scheduled for an outpatient hysterectomy for September 1, 2023. I worked with insurance to approve it with only $5000 in out of pocket costs.

Unfortunately, there were some complications that required a hospital stay and I was left with a $27,000 bill.

Business Impact:

In 2020, I founded Imagine Impact and began growing our team and client base. In the midst of this incredible physical pain and mental turmoil, we were doing well through 2022. However, as our primary sales or business development leader, my frequent absences led to a lack of new clients and subsequent revenue. By the time I returned to working part-time in November 2023, we had no new business and slim prospects. I unfortunately had to reduce our team, stop taking income from the business, and take on debt to sustain operations.

Despite these challenges, my team has shown unwavering encouragement, flexibility, and respect for my situation.

Current Situation:

I am still healing and working towards getting Imagine back on track. However, the financial burden from my medical expenses and the business impact has made this journey incredibly challenging.

I’ve tried to go at this alone but find myself at a crossroads. Imagine deserves to continue the great work we’ve been doing and I deserve a chance to heal without the crushing weight of debt and bills.

Goals:

I am seeking to raise $25,000 to cover my medical debt and reinvest in Imagine Consulting. The funds will be split in this way:

Conclusion:

Through all of this, one thing has become clear: our health journeys may be personal, but they’re never truly solitary. It is my hope that even if nothing is donated, sharing my story and my persistence will be supportive of others going through similar struggles.

Your support means the world to me. Any contribution, no matter how small, will make a significant difference. Please donate to this fundraiser and share it to reach a wider audience. Thank you for your generosity and kindness.

As always, be well.

C