My name is Miriam Lea Ziven. I am a full time Argentine Tango dancer, instructor,and choreographer. I am self-employed and almost all my income comes from performing teaching, and coaching.

 

My right foot is diagnosed with hallux rigidus, from an old dance injury that was aggravated in the last year while working under new conditions. I must now have surgery and will not be able to work for six months after the procedure. There are medical bills and regular living expenses coming that are already stacking up. I am single and live alone. I take care of a 25 year old parrot, D’artagnan.

 

Backstory

 

As I said before, the majority of my income comes from dancing Argentine Tango. As a result of the current COVID-19 crisis, shows, events, workshops and private classes were cancelled in its entirety. I pivoted my work quickly to dancing with my patrons and dance partner on the internet, then in person ON CONCRETE FLOORING which was my only choice. This helped me pay the rent, but is not suitable for dancing long periods of time and instigated this serious pain.

 

In Jan 2021, after spending most days teaching and performing on concrete, my right foot was in excruciating pain. It became too painful to sleep. I tried all the possible treatments (prp injection, cortisone, and physical therapy, stopped jogging, tried swimming, rigid orthodix in my shoes, different kinds of shoes, the list goes on). Unfortunately, nothing worked and the only possibility to recover now is a cheilectomy surgery. I work for a living on my feet and while this toe joint needs to be fixed, the rest of my body is dance ready.

 

This situation will drop my income to ZERO, however I am working on expediting a healthy recovery which means I will get back on the dance floor in a safe and timely fashion.

 

I am asking for a bit of support from all my friends from around the world, lovers of dance, the Arts, students and friends, people who love independent contractors and micro businesses to help me stay afloat through this difficult transitional moment. Support so that having a home (being able to afford rent, food, utilities) will not be an obstacle at least for a couple months while I am recovering from surgery. Support so that covering physical therapy after this surgery will be accessible.

 

I always do my best to help others, and I am asking for help this time. I will be out of work for a minimum of four to six months and must make sure I can handle the minimum amount of bills. I appreciate you helping and if you're not able to donate, you can help me a lot by sharing this with others.  Thank you for your compassion, friendship and help in this situation. I love dancing, it is my life and it is also my work and way of living... and I am looking forward to continuing soon...