My name is Mark, and I am reaching out for help, for both myself, and my caregiver. I have lived with a physical disability since I was fourteen, after being struck by a drunk driver as a pedestrian, at 75 mph. Despite the challenges, I have always pushed myself to help others whenever I could. Following my health declining significantly - which includes abrupt falls and two MRIs by Kaiser confirming "spinal stenosis," I face the high likelihood of "cauda equina syndrome." With no employment, the gravity of this situation is leaving me in a very difficult situation, not to mention, emotionally on edge.

Last month, I moved from Washington state to California, in the hopes of receiving better medical care. While I have started to get some of the care I need, I cannot establish primary care until next month, due to appointment availability. Without a primary care provider (PCP), I am unable to access medical transport, and many other essential services. I also had to leave my car behind in Washington state, because of financial constraints, which has made it even harder for my caregiver to help me day-to-day. My caregiver is currently volunteering his time, so we are both struggling to make ends meet. (The paperwork for hiring him as my caregiver has been submitted to the Sacramento County IHSS, but is still processing.)

The funds raised will go directly toward transportation for groceries and medical appointments, essential testing and treatments to prevent paralysis, and daily expenses - including caring for our two dogs (5 and 11 years old), until I am approved for in-home support services (caregiving). (I cannot use SacRT's Paratransit services until I have a PCP sign-off, despite being disabled since 14.) As well, thanks to a nonprofit volunteer position secured by my caregiver, we are provided housing and some utilities, but we still are not able to make our minimum required expenses.

Any support you can offer would mean the world to us. We are both financially desperate, and your kindness could make all the difference in helping us get through this challenging time.

Please contact us directly, if you need further information, or would like to find other direct ways to support us.

Regardless, thank you for your amazing generosity, and we wish you the best!

Mark.