On January 28th, 2025, while getting dressed for work, I attempted to slip into a dress shirt and, once again, dislocated my shoulder. This resulted in another ER visit, another sling, and a realization that after the 15th time (is that a record?!) of dislocating my shoulder, I needed to consult with a surgeon.

During this time, I was gainfully employed, but immediately after my injury and the subsequent sling that I was required to be in at all times, my job began silently firing me. My boss began sabotaging my projects, changing my hours at a moment's notice, forcing me into a terrible position. My shoulder surgery was scheduled for April 28th, and about ten days before the known surgery date, my boss decided the organization needed a "restructuring" and eliminated my position as Program Director. He then offered me a new position with significantly fewer hours, less pay, and an increase in responsibilities in an attempt to either abuse my labor or force me out. I chose to resign, which my boss did not take well, as he thought he could force me into any made-up insane position he desired. On April 22nd, I was asked to leave the organization with zero explanation.

Ultimately, I won the unemployment case against the organization, but the state of Illinois has deemed that due to my current injury and limitations, I am not "willing & able" to work, so I likely will never see a dime of unemployment.

This puts me in a fairly unfortunate predicament with my lease, my health insurance, co-pays, and bills, making it impossible for me to continue my physical therapy, go to doctor appointments, and more. My vehicle is also in need of repairs, which is not financially feasible currently.

This is all to say that if you have the ability, I would be forever grateful for any assistance anyone could provide at this time. I have job interviews lined up and am constantly looking for employment. But right now, I need to be able to pay out my lease, my power bills, insurance bills, co-pays, and more until I get back on my feet. If you're reading this and thinking, "God, Cody, another tragedy?!" Same, bud, same. But I am trying. I don't know how or why these terrible events keep on going, but here we are. So please, anything can help me get through the next couple of months. All my best.

-Cody