To say that this is without a doubt the most embarrassing thing I’ve ever had to do is beyond honest. I’ve always been the person who gave and helped… to ask for that same grace is simply humiliating. And in this reality of so much need, I feel so undeserving of that as well. However, I’m at the point where I have no choice and I literally am out of places to turn, so with all that, here’s my situation.

My story isn’t much different than anybody else’s. Two years ago, my job was eliminated due to corporate cutbacks. I started the search and at the same time pivoted to Uber/Lyft and made ends meet as best as I could. I regained full employment after a few months out of work, but my new job was eliminated again after only three months. This again put me in the position of having to live on Lyft and Uber while I searched for the next role.

Two months later, the next disaster happened in my life when my partner was injured at work in December and then reinjured again in January and again in May. To keep him able to stay at home after three surgeries, I took over his care and worked when I could. In February, I was doing that part-time gig work early in the morning when I was in an accident and totaled my car, which temporarily removed my ability to provide any income for myself. To be very clear, my partner has been wonderful about supporting me through this. He has covered all of my living expenses and to help me regain my independence and return to work, he bought me a used car two months ago. To help myself, I’ve returned to work with two part time jobs and I am actively seeking a new full time role that will resolve my issues permanently. 

All of that leads me to the big issue that has upended my world- the car. Despite careful due diligence on our parts, last week my “new to me” car developed some mechanical issues and we have now learned that the car needs a new transmission. Frankly, this is simply impossible for either of us to pay for and that’s why I’m here writing this and hoping someone can help.

Of course, I know everyone is in a hard place now and I hate to ask, but if anyone has anything they can spare, I would be beyond appreciative. Again, this is not a place I ever imagined I’d be. I’ve given back so very much to so many because I believe that is my role in the human social contract. I just never believed that any of the things that have happened to me would ever happen. Clearly, I was so very wrong.

Thanks so much for your help in advance and please know that when I can, I will most gladly pay it forward to others.