My name is Torrey Grimaldi. I’ve always been proud, independent, and self-supporting. I’ve always worked most of my life as a federal postal service employee. I’ve also been an animal lover and always volunteered in the animal service industry locally in San Diego at the Humane Society and back in Oklahoma at a wildlife sanctuary, Broken Arrow Sanctuary, owned by Lori Ensign.

At times, life serves us up many curveballs. Most of these we all weather on our own, but sometimes challenges present themselves that we can’t handle alone! I am now facing my second such instance. I learned from my first experience that asking for help is not a weakness, and this time I’m reaching out to all who see this for whatever you may be able to contribute and ask that you share my page with everyone in your network, sphere of influence, and contact list!

In 2013, I was diagnosed with colon cancer and was forced into disability for treatment and recovery. I’ve never served in the military, but for any Clint Eastwood fans out there, “I was forced to adapt, improvise, and eventually overcome, just to survive.” After spending Five years through surgeries, treatment, and recovery, I was finally able to return to work with the United States Postal Service and volunteer my pet services and knowledge to friends, family, and acquaintances.

NOW 2025.

Over the past six months, I’ve had to call off work forever-increasing debilitating pain. My recent emergency room and hospital visit and MRI revealed extensive low back and spinal cord damage that will require surgery to address. I have spinal central canal stenosis that is squeezing my spinal cord and five herniated lumbar discs with two being torn, and an identified fragment that possibly will have to be taken out. With extensive help from people with far more knowledge and experience, I’ve taken extensive action to protect myself from being fired and evicted. First, I applied for immediate FMLA leave to protect myself from being fired. I’ve applied for an expedited hearing to reinstate my previous disability. I’ve also applied with San Diego County Health for Medicaid, EBT CalFresh food assistance, and financial general relief assistance. I’ve consulted with UCSD Orthopedic Spinal Surgery Department and have scheduled multiple appointments for pre-surgical tests before the actual surgery. I’ve also had a foundation cover my rent to help, but with the slow pace of timing these days , I really need public support to help cover the cost of my rent, utilities, car payment, and personal needs!

I’m finalizing my post office disability paperwork as I had to get all my medical stuff put on a flash drive that will take several months to be looked at and approved. While I will be facing 4 to 6 months of surgery, physical therapy, and rehab before any possibility of returning to work in the future, I must take care of myself. Any donations will be greatly appreciated as it will keep me afloat till my disability completes process!! God bless and thank you all!’

Best regards and much love,

Torrey Grimaldi ❤️