Hi there. My name is Trip. I was recently let go from my job, which supports me and my partner, and our animals. I am waiting for a verdict from unemployment. I am already behind on bills (our gas is months behind and we have racked up late fees, and will lose our utilities if not paid by the 18th of August), have just experienced a medical emergency, and have had two life-changing diagnoses. I am currently experiencing a mental health crisis, and am staying with my best friend in another state for a few days. I have been asked to open a fundraiser so members of our HR fan community can help me. I am so appreciative of any help we get. Please do not feel obligated to donate. Take care of yourself first.

I typically make $3-$4k a month. I pay the majority of the bills in our household. I do not have savings.

Here is a breakdown of the most pressing expenses I have, just to be completely transparent. All of the help I have received so far has gone to paying for my medical expenses and trying to catch up with late bills.

Rent - $1900 (I typically pay $1000 or $1200 of it, depending on how much my partner makes in the month)

Utilities - $250 (electricity), $800 (gas, this is including late fees and months behind. it is usually about $100)

Phones - $150

Medication - $90

I am currently waiting on unemployment, but in the meantime, I have applied to over 30 jobs in the last two days. I am trying my hardest to stabilize mentally and with employment. I can show proof for any of these bills if needed. I am so sorry to post and ask for help, but I have been encouraged to, and if it will help keep myself and our animals afloat, I appreciate anything. If, by some miracle, we go over the goal, I will use anything I receive for the next month's rent and bills, god forbid I do not have employment in the next 30 days.

Again, thank you for your support, thoughts, and well wishes. Do not feel obligated to donate, and please take care of yourself first.

I am going to pay this forward with the cup sleeve charity event I have been organizing in Chicago, where proceeds from the cup sleeve event will go to You Can Play, an inclusive LGBT sports charity, so that we can spread sports inclusivity and sunshine to those who may not be included in their passions.