Hi, I'm Lenée. I am an organizer and cultural worker. I need your help to get out of an emotionally abusive and financially controlling relationship. I struggle to find the words, because I feel such deep shame and embarrassment. If you follow me on socials, you may have gotten a little glimpse here or there of what I'm dealing with. I have struggled to put it all into words, because some days I can't keep track of what's happening.

I have Long Covid, which has manifested for me in "brain fog" and chronic fatigue, which have made it impossible for me to work full time. Additionally, I have navigated chronic illness since 2018, including hospitalization and chronic infections. Because I was immune compromised well before 2018, all of my recovery experiences have been complex and difficult.

On October 30 of this year, I went to the emergency room to address an umbilical abscess and bacterial infection, my fourth such occurrence in a two year period. It turns out that this recurring infection is the result of having back to back laparoscopic procedures; my body grew something called a granuloma. Though this growth is not cancerous or otherwise dangerous, my specific situation has caused me a lot of pain and illness. I have been scheduled for removal of this growth as well as my entire umbilical stump and surrounding area. Yes, that means I have to get my belly button removed. I'm not thrilled about it. Surgery is scheduled for March 11, 2026. Hopefully, I won't have another emergent infection between now and that date.

All of this is happening while I navigate an increasingly unsafe living situation with my now-ex partner. While there is no physical harm present, I cannot properly heal from illness. I cannot enjoy the home I was invited to make into a sanctuary. I do not have an exhaustive list of traits and behaviors that make me unsafe here; I do, however, know the writing is on the wall. I need to leave this apartment before March 1, 2026, when my lease ends. It's taxing my mental health. In December, I am re-launching my grief workshops and teach-ins so I can supplement my ever-shrinking patreon income; I need extra help to get to a new long-term housing situation.

This $5,000 will cover my groceries and bills, a portion of a housing deposit. Further, this amount helps with any medical costs not covered by my state health insurance, including wound care and transport to and from my weekly medical appointments.

I know that in the midst of the shutdown, there are people in as much need as I, if not more. I'm appreciative of job leads, writing commissions, and other gig work all the same.

If you made it this far, thank you for reading. Please share this campaign with appropriate parties.

In the spirit of community,

Lenée