Most of you know my story by now. A year ago my heart gave out. After months of trying everything I ended up in a Utah hospital where I had an LVAD installed- an artificial heart pump that circulates blood throughout my body because my heart can no longer do it. While it has done wonders, there's still a long way to go. It also has one big downside- my doctors say I will be unable to return to work until I get a heart transplant, something that is a long way off.
While I thought I was in good shape to weather a financial downturn, it turns out I was sadly mistaken. I applied for social security disability, got the mandatory three denials, and appealed those. But, thanks to a technicality- and the incompetence of a disability attorney- I had to start the process all over in October. Social security officials tell me it will be at least May before my application is considered, and they have up to two years to make a decision. Meanwhile, I haven't worked since March, I've drained my retirement, sold my house at a considerable loss and had to turn my car back to the bank. But I thought I could eek it out with the help of my mom.
Then she got sick, and the doctor says she's unlikely to ever be able to return home and has put her in assisted living. That leaves me to come up with enough for rent, utilities and incidentals until social security approves my application.
I swore I would never ask my family and friends for help- it just isn't me. I've never been good at asking others for help, but, at this point, it's time to humble myself and ask. Anything would be a blessing. Thank you, and God bless.