Hi everyone,

I’m raising funds to enroll in a short, hands-on healthcare training program through CALRegional to become a phlebotomy technician, allowing me to move into stable, in-demand medical work that closely matches my skills and experience.

After extensive research and informational meetings with local programs, including Kaiser and CALRegional, I identified this certification path as a strong fit for me. The work involves focused, procedural tasks, brief but meaningful patient interactions, and helping people feel calm during situations they often find stressful, all areas where I consistently do well.

I’ve spent many years working in the veterinary field, supporting medical teams, assisting with clinical tasks, and helping ease anxiety for both animals and their owners. That experience gave me a solid foundation in fast-paced medical environments and confirmed that hands-on, patient-focused work is where I thrive.

This path also has personal meaning for me. When I was younger, I helped my grandmother manage her diabetes by assisting with blood sugar checks. She once told me I had “the hands of a nurse,” and that moment stayed with me.

I’m especially drawn to this work because of the critical and ongoing need for blood donation. As someone with O-negative blood, I’ve long been aware of how essential safe, reliable blood collection is to emergency care and community health. I’m interested in pursuing roles that support blood donation efforts, including organizations like the Red Cross, where this skill directly contributes to saving lives.

As a single mother raising two children in the Bay Area, it’s essential for me to pursue work that is both emotionally sustainable and financially stable. Healthcare support roles like this are growing and in demand, and completing this certification would open the door to steady employment in hospitals, clinics, laboratories, or blood donation centers.

The program tuition is $3,000, and the remaining funds will help cover required materials and travel expenses needed to complete the training. At this time, I’m not able to cover these costs on my own, which is why I’m reaching out for support.

Any contribution, share, or message of encouragement truly means a great deal to me. This training represents a practical step toward stability and meaningful work, and I’m deeply grateful for any help in making it possible.

With gratitude,

Rachel