Hi, friends! If you know me, you know that I am typically reluctant to ask for help. I find comfort in being able to handle things on my own— something that is a point of both pride and pain in my life. Recently, though, as unexpected life circumstances have snowballed, operating without the support of others hasn't been as much of a possibility.
To keep it short and digestible, here's a brief overview of what's led me to ask for community support:
- In March of 2024 I lost my job
- In April of 2024 I got a(nother) concussion, which came with a year-long recovery
- In April of 2025 I had gender-affirming surgery
- Over the summer of 2025 I sustained a minor injury
- In the fall of 2025 I lost a second parent to cancer
- And, most recently, in October of 2025 I sustained a full ACL tear while playing my first season of flag football, which requires surgery and a lengthy recovery
Many of us know that the job market these days is... notably bad. I know I'm not the only one that has spent the last two years applying and applying to industry jobs that they are more than qualified for with no luck. Alongside this, I delved into gig work, freelancing, pet care, food service, and a total revamp of my photo business. My knee injury forced me to let go of my job as a barista, with winter came the end of outdoor photography season... so on and so forth. We all know how these things go.
The brief overview of The Now:
- I am in a tough place financially as a result of losing my job unexpectedly in 2024
- I have consistent work now, but still not enough to cover my expenses
- In January of 2026 I will be getting surgery to reconstruct my ACL— postponing the surgery isn't a viable option for me due to the level of daily pain I am in
- In addition to the medical expenses, I won't have the ability to receive pay for the amount time that I will likely be out of work, and will need additional support to stay afloat during this time
I know that many of the people I love are facing financial insecurity right now. It is a very tough time to be living in this country, and if helping me out is not in the cards for you, I completely understand.
Much love,
Elliott
Organizer
