A Homebound Amputee Trying to Stay Housed and Mobile

My name is John Carlough. I’m a disabled amputee living alone, unable to drive, and trying to stay stable while dealing with serious complications in my only remaining foot.

Right now my goal is simple: keep a roof over my head, stay mobile enough to care for myself, and avoid losing the last independence I have.

But after years of medical challenges and limited income, my savings are nearly gone and I’m struggling to keep up with basic living expenses.

I’m asking for help to get through this difficult period safely.

My Medical Situation

A few years ago I lost my right foot to a severe diabetic bone infection. The infection could not be controlled and amputation became the only option.

Learning to live as an amputee was one of the hardest things I’ve ever faced. I worked hard to adapt, regain mobility, and rebuild my life.

Now I’m dealing with another serious condition: Charcot foot in my left — and only remaining — foot.

Charcot foot weakens the bones in the foot and can cause them to collapse if too much pressure is placed on them. If it progresses too far, it can lead to deformity or even another amputation.

Doctors believe surgery will eventually be necessary, possibly in the coming years. Until then, every day is about protecting my foot while still trying to live independently.

Daily Life Is a Constant Challenge

My mobility is extremely limited.

Some days I can wear my prosthetic and crow boot for short periods. Other days the pain becomes too severe and I have to rely entirely on a knee scooter to get around.

Even basic activities like preparing food, doing laundry, or getting to medical appointments take significant effort and planning.

Because I cannot drive, every trip outside my home requires rideshare services like Uber or Lyft.

Living alone makes this even harder.

Why I’m Asking for Help

My disability prevents me from working a traditional job, and the financial strain has been building.

Right now I’m struggling to cover:

Rent and utilities

Groceries and basic living expenses

Transportation to medical appointments

Essential day-to-day costs while my mobility is limited

Without support, I’m at risk of falling behind on housing and basic necessities, which would make my medical situation even more dangerous.

Losing stable housing while dealing with severe mobility limitations would be devastating.

How Donations Will Help

Your support will help me stay safe and stable while I manage my disability and prepare for future medical treatment.

Funds will go toward:

Housing & Utilities

Keeping a safe place to live while I deal with my mobility limitations.

Food & Basic Essentials

Groceries, hygiene items, medications, and daily necessities.

Transportation to Medical Care

Uber/Lyft rides to doctors and essential errands since I cannot drive.

Support During Limited Mobility

Help covering bills on days when pain and mobility make even simple tasks difficult.

Every Contribution Matters

Even small donations make a real difference.

$20 helps cover several days of groceries

$50 helps with transportation to medical appointments

$100 helps keep utilities and essential bills paid

If you’re unable to donate, simply sharing this campaign helps more people see my story.

My Commitment

I am doing everything I can to improve my situation.

I continue working on increasing my mobility, managing my condition, and exploring work opportunities that can accommodate my disability.

Your support helps me stay stable long enough to keep fighting forward.

One day, when I’m able, I hope to pay forward the kindness shown to me during this difficult time.

Thank You

Asking for help is incredibly difficult, but I’m grateful to anyone who takes the time to read my story.

Your support gives me something incredibly valuable right now:

time, stability, and hope.

Thank you for helping me keep going.

With sincere gratitude,

John Carlough