I never thought I’d be writing this, but I’ve learned that it’s okay to ask for help.

Hi everyone,

It’s hard to believe it’s been two years since my life took an unexpected turn. As many of you know, I’ve been navigating some serious medical challenges that have changed my world in ways I never could have imagined.

What began as colitis with c.diff quickly turned into a two-year journey of hospital rooms, endless tests, and more "tough days" than I’d like to count. At this point, I was down to 87 lbs and needed to be put on a feeding tube. During this two year period Nino has been my rock and my soul care taker. While I am working hard every single day to regain my strength and get back to the life I love, the reality of my situation has become something I can no longer manage on my own.

Being away from work and focusing entirely on my health has created a financial burden that is, quite honestly, overwhelming. Between the mounting medical bills, the cost of an ileostomy which then was reversed, endless hospital visits, rehabilitation services, and the basic costs of keeping my head above water, I’ve reached a point where I need to lean on my community.

Asking for help is one of the hardest things I’ve ever had to do. I’ve always preferred to be the one offering a hand, not the one with my hand out. But this experience has taught me so much about the importance of connection and the power of a support system.

Where the Funds Will Go

Your generosity will go directly toward:

• Paying off medical debt accumulated over the last 24 months.

• Covering ongoing treatments that are vital to my recovery.

• Helping me keep up with daily living expenses so I can focus 100% on healing.

Whether it’s a small donation, a share of this page, or just a kind message, please know that it means the world to me. Every bit of support gives me a little more room to breathe and a lot more strength to keep fighting.

Thank you for being part of my journey and for showing me that I don’t have to walk this road alone.

With love and gratitude,

Susie