Hi everyone,

My name is Johnny Castillo, and I’m a proud Zumba instructor with over six years of experience. Zumba is my passion, my safe place, my therapy—it’s where I feel most alive and connected with others. Teaching has allowed me to bring joy, movement, and healing to my community, and I’ve always felt grateful for that purpose.

Besides Zumba, I was also working as a server, which was my main source of income. Sadly, I lost that job, and due to my mental health, I haven’t been able to teach my Zumba classes either.

To be honest, I always thought asking for help was something to be ashamed of. My pride and fear of being vulnerable kept me quiet for a long time. But now, I’m choosing to speak up and lean on the community that has always supported me—those who’ve danced with me, laughed with me, and seen the light I try to share.

The truth is, I’ve been battling depression for the past six years. I’ve been in therapy for three, but I never wanted to try medication—until I reached one of the lowest points in my life. I didn’t want to live. Not in a way of hurting myself, but in a way where I had lost all joy. Even Zumba, the thing I love most, no longer brought me happiness.

For two months, I couldn’t get out of bed. I struggled with simple tasks like showering or brushing my teeth. It was heartbreaking and lonely. My family is in Colombia and unfortunately can’t support me during this time.

Just two weeks ago, I was diagnosed with severe bipolar depression, and I’m now getting the treatment I need. It’s helping, and I’m starting to feel a little better—but healing takes time, and I need to put my mental health first.

That’s why I’ve created this GoFundMe. I’m reaching out to ask for your support as I go through this chapter. Your donation—whether it’s $1, $5, or anything you feel called to give—will help me cover rent, basic expenses, and medical support while I focus on getting better.

This isn’t easy to share. But I’m trusting that love and community will carry me through. Thank you, from the bottom of my heart, for reading my story, for your support, and for being part of my healing.

With gratitude,

Johnny Castillo ✨