Urgent Help Needed: I Made a Costly Mistake, and I Don’t Know What to Do…

Hello, my name is BamBam, and I’m currently in the United States working as an Au Pair, living with a host family while helping take care of their children. I came here through a cultural exchange program with the hope of growing, learning, and building a better future for myself.

A few weeks ago, something happened that turned my life upside down.

While on a short trip to Connecticut , I rented a car from Hertz. I mistakenly filled it with diesel instead of gasoline. I had no idea this could cause serious damage — but it did. The engine was ruined.

Now, Hertz has sent me a bill of $4,446.14, including:

• $3,395.85 for engine repairs

• $550.29 for something called “diminution of value”

• $500 in administrative fees

As an Au Pair, I only receive a very small weekly stipend — and I have no family here, no insurance to cover this, and no way to pay. I feel sick and heartbroken. This mistake was not out of carelessness — it was a misunderstanding, but it cost me more than I ever imagined.

I’m reaching out with so much humility and fear — I’ve never asked for help like this before — but I don’t have many options. If you could donate even a few dollars, it would mean the world to me.

I promise that every cent will go directly toward paying off this unexpected debt so I can continue my program and get back on my feet.

Please share this with anyone who might be able to help. And from the bottom of my heart: thank you for reading, caring, and considering.

With deep gratitude,

[BamBam Suthida]