For 40 years, I’ve been lucky enough to call this woman my best friend. She is one of the hardest-working, kindest, and strongest people I’ve ever known. She makes friends everywhere she goes.

Despite working over 60 hours a week, she is struggling and she is losing hope. This woman never loses hope, but everyone has their breaking point.

The system we live in is broken. I know that's not news to most of you, but it is absolutely sickening that we live in a culture where a single mom has to chose between being with her kids or having food. If she gets a tiny raise at work, she loses medical insurance, but can't afford to pay premiums. If her car breaks down, there is no safety net. If her housing is pulled out from under her, she is homeless with no way to afford to move. When she has a medical emergency, she has to go back to work in days rather than the weeks.

The worst part is, she blames herself; even though I've watched her do everything on her own for most of our lives. She never complains, never asks for help, and always puts her kids first. I can't stand to watch her keep drowning under the weight of it all.

I know that a lot of people are struggling right now. How are people supposed to survive? What kind of life are we okay with other humans having to live? I just don't get it.

If you have the means to donate to help with food, housing, and medical care, thank you. If you don't, I am just happy you've read this so people know that good people are doing everything they can and they still can't afford to live. It's outrageous.

XOXO

Teja