I’m writing this quite reluctantly as I’d like to consider myself a very self-sufficient person. I recently suffered a broken patella in my right knee at a most unfortunate time. Not that there’s ever a good time for such a thing to happen to anyone. As you might know, I work as a freelancer in the Film and Television industry. I’m in the Art Department field, which is a very hands-on, physical position that requires me to climb ladders, pack in trucks, carry walls, and various other precarious objects. I’m on my feet, running around most days, often ten or more hours. That said, there is no way I can do my job on crutches with this right leg now adorned with a plethora of metal bars, screws, and bolts. I’m told that I get to wear this contraption for at least 8 weeks. My mind has been racing as to how I am going to get through this.

Like a lot of Americans, I don’t have health insurance and am finding that the options available to me through the hospital are limited, with nothing pointing to a great deal or option. I’m hoping that I can apply for disability, but that is still to be determined. At this point, rent, food, pet food, and utilities are my biggest concerns. Medical expenses will pile up, but they can also take a backseat as they seem to be a bit wishy-washy in how they’ve gone about this whole situation.

I’ve never asked for a handout and was quite reluctant to ask here, but the few people whom I have shared this current experience with have suggested I do so, as apparently, that’s exactly what this platform is for. If you’re able to contribute, share, or send encouragement, it would mean the world to me. Thank you for considering helping me get through this difficult time.