Hello,

My name is Smithson Michael, and I am a Marine Veteran.

When I lost my parents at a young age, I had nowhere to go. I decided to serve this country, and unfortunately once I was finished with my service, I found myself directly back onto the streets. Looking back, I suppressed much of the trauma I had endured. It was one of the main aspects of training, and I had nothing else.

I started to make deliveries, living out of my car. Covid took a toll on the world, and I was just barely hanging on. Most of my deliveries were made with the tank on "E". Unfortunately one night as I was just about to try to get some rest I opened my eyes to a knock on the window: the repo man. They took the car, and I was never allowed to retrieve my belongings. I couldn't carry them all. They said they would let me, but they never answered my phone calls. Once again I had to start over again, from scratch, something I have had to do painfully too many times.

Since then, I have been filming my journey, as well as speaking up for veterans, as well as the need for our society and world to spread awareness about how they should be better cared and provided for. I also play songs on my guitar to spread hope, and post them for others to be inspired, and enjoy.

In my time on the street, i have experienced many hardships. Some have even gone so far as to physically attack me, destroy my guitar, and mock me every chance they get. There isn't enough room in this field to fully describe how much I've endured out here. I don't know what it is like to have a home anymore. It's such a heartbreaking feeling to realize it.

I often ask myself why are so many veterans treated like this after serving their country? Many people have seen my videos. I dont know if they know, how much I appreciate the kind words and support some of them have given. That, gives me hope to keep going. Even though I might feel like I've got nothing left sometimes, I hold onto my belief that one day, my life will be in a better situation.

My story is a stark reminder that too many people, especially veterans, face incredible challenges just to survive. This fundraiser is to finally give me some relief, from a long road of hardship amd suffering. I gave my life for my country. I believe anyone that has done such should have a good life afterwards.

This fundraiser can help me live whatever life i have left, a better life than I've experienced. Every dollar raised will go directly to supporting- by helping me with living expenses, medical care, and the small joys that make life meaningful. I fought for my country, worked my whole life, and now it’s our turn to fight for any veteran in this plight. If you’ve ever been moved by someone’s courage, if you believed our veterans deserve dignity, please consider contributing.

Even sharing this story can help us reach more people who want to make a difference. Let’s show the world that the same bravery and commitment that veterans give to this country and community does not go unnoticed. ❤️ Smithson