Hello, my name is John Keuroghlian, and I’m reaching out with a heavy heart. I’m 62 years old and currently living on disability. For most of my life, I was proud to work hard and earn my way—never imagining that one day I’d be in the position of asking for help.

For over 28 years, I worked full-time in physically demanding jobs—first at a label manufacturing company for 17 years, then as a janitorial maintenance worker in a large warehouse for nearly 11 years. I never shied away from hard work. I lifted heavy boxes, walked long distances, and pushed myself through pain, day after day, because that’s what needed to be done. I was proud of that.

But over time, my body began to wear down. I’ve suffered from chronic asthma, bronchitis, and arthritis from my back down to my feet. Most significantly, I’ve lived with a ruptured disc in my lower back for nearly 30 years—a painful condition I was told could only be fixed with risky surgery that might leave me in a wheelchair. I chose to endure the pain to keep moving, to keep working, to stay independent.

Eventually, though, even my determination couldn’t outmatch the toll it all took on me. I had to leave my job just a few months ago due to the worsening pain and physical limitations. Even then, I tried everything I could to keep going. My supervisor, a kind and understanding man, did what he could to lighten my load. But I knew I was slowing down, and if corporate had seen me resting from pain or shortness of breath, I likely would’ve been fired.

Since leaving, I’ve been doing everything in my power to find work I can manage. I’ve sent applications, gone on interviews but nothing has worked out so far. I haven’t given up hope, but the reality is: I’m struggling.

To make matters worse, I’m now facing a $33,000 debt to Social Security due to a misunderstanding. Despite trying to resolve it, they’ve already started withholding half of my disability check each month until it’s paid back over the next three years.

This means I’m left with less than $1,000 a month, while my rent and bills come to over $1,500. Every month, I fall further behind. I’m now facing the very real and terrifying possibility of becoming homeless all because of a system error I’m being forced to pay for.

I’ve always believed in standing on my own two feet. I’ve never been one to ask for help. But today, I find myself in a situation I can’t fix alone. That’s why I’m humbly reaching out to you whether you can donate, share this message, or simply send a kind word, it would mean the world to me.

Your generosity can help me stay in my home, pay for food and medical care, and keep hope alive while I continue to search for stability.

From the bottom of my heart, thank you for taking the time to read my story.

With gratitude,

John Keuroghlian