- L
- V
Hi. My name is Erin. I am 55 years old and fighting for survival in a harsh Alberta winter.
Before the nightmare began
In 2020 I had left my family and friends in Ontario and drove across the country to start a new chapter in my life in Alberta.
Most people would say I lived the life others could only dream of. I bought an old motorhome and in 2022 I began a 2 year adventure where I would experience the incredible beauty of the Rocky Mountains, crystal blue lakes, brilliant sunsets, deep valleys, wildlife, and joy of overcoming many challenges as a solo traveller. I had a great job that allowed me to work on the road. My health was good and my outlook on life was positive and uplifting.
Life can change in an instant
In January, 2025 I fell on ice and sustained a broken leg and serious injuries to my back/spine. To be more specific I compressed my spine from the neck to my pelvis, compromised 3 discs in my neck which are now degenerating, and completely destroyed the L1 and L2 vertebrae in the lumbar region of my spine.
The results of these injuries are:
- chronic pain
- impaired motion in my left ankle
- difficulty standing and sitting
- sleep disruption from pain
- difficulty getting dressed and putting on footwear
- difficulty using stairs
- inability to bend at waist or legs
- difficulty showering, cooking, cleaning, walking
- difficulty concentrating and memory impairment from sleep deprivation
- unable to lift objects
- loss of independence
- impaired circulation to legs and feet
- inability to work/loss of income
- impact on mental health (stress, depression, despair, isolation, lack of access to resources, embarrassment, etc)
How I got to where I am today
The Alberta government fails to assist people in need of financial assistance, affordable housing, and medical support. They do nothing to help the elderly, disabled, homeless, or mentally ill. Society has become ignorant towards the less fortunate and Alberta is facing a crisis.
Unable to work or access financial assistance, I could no longer pay rent and became homeless. Stuck in the motorhome in the middle of nowhere in -30c temperatures. Every day is a fight for survival.
Why I started this go fund me page
I never imagined I would become an addition to the homeless population that plagues this province.
I know I can make a difference in this world by sharing my story to initiate change to decrease the number of homeless Canadians, and eliminate the stigmas directed towards the homeless by society.
But I need to get myself out of the dangerous conditions I am facing first I need access to sustainable shelter for myself and my dog and financial assistance for necessary items such as food, heat, medical treatment, transportation to services, etc.
If I can get to Ontario I have a place to stay for the winter. My dog can’t fly so I need a rental car (yes I have a valid drivers licence).
Or I need access to affordable housing and the funds to cover the costs until I can start receiving financial assistance from government services.
I know people are hesitant to provide funds to the homeless because they feel the money will be used for things other than what it should be used for. I am not an addict. I do not so drugs. I do not drink alcohol. I am not mentally ill. I am not dishonest. I am not a criminal.
Every penny raised will go towards getting my life on track and survival.
i thank you for your compassion, understanding, and hope you have given me that things will get better.
Organizer
