Many of you know me as a writer, journalist, creator of spooky and scary content/stories. And I hate doing this; it's not a post I thought I'd need to write. I try to support others, or raise money for other causes (Trevor Project, California wildfire relief, East Side House), and don't like being the one asking.

But after a recent scare, I've run out of other options and time seems to be of the essence.

As some of you know, over the past stretch I've been dealing with some health symptoms. My doc takes it seriously enough that I need to be proactive. Now.

Such is the state of healthcare in this country that — as someone who has done OK for himself being self-employed much of my career — my insurance ain't great, costs are mounting, and approvals for coverage are slim. In fact, the reality is some of what I need isn't fully covered.

So here's what this actually costs, laid out plainly:

-Testing, and pursuing doctor suggestions

-Potential travel to get to the right specialists and facilities

-Care for my pup Indiana while I'm away for appointments and travel

-Taking time to pursue this quickly. (None of this happens without missing paid gigs and hours)

-And potentially relocating to be closer to those who can help

That's all before we even get to whatever comes after — treatment, if the tests point somewhere specific. Right now I'm just trying to get through the door.

I know healthcare in this country puts people in this position constantly, and I know I'm not special in that regard. That doesn't make it easier to ask. But if you're able to chip in anything, it's a life saver.

If you can't give, sharing this still helps more than you'd think. And when I can, I'll be paying it forward in spades to someone else who needs help.

Thank you for reading this far. And, as always:

Be Kind.

Stay Spooky.

Keep It Weird.

-Aaron