Kelsey McRae

I’ve gone back and forth about posting this because asking for help doesn’t come naturally to me, but I’m trying to give people the chance to help instead of quietly struggling. I’m 32 years old, 4'9", and recently lost around 20 pounds. While that may not sound like much, on a smaller frame it has made a significant difference, and most of my clothes no longer fit comfortably. Finding clothing has always been difficult because of my size. Many affordable, secondhand and donated options that fit are made for children, and while I’m grateful for anything available, I miss feeling comfortable, presentable, and dressed in a way that feels age appropriate. I’m also autistic, and finding consistent, manageable employment has been challenging for me over the years. Recently, finances became tighter than expected after my husband changed careers for better long term opportunity but lower starting pay while getting established. At the same time, we’ve been carrying additional financial strain from ongoing repairs to the trailer left to us after my brother passed away. The trailer had previously been damaged in a fire, and while we’ve worked hard to restore it, it’s still unfinished because resources have been limited. Some weeks we’re simply focused on getting through and keeping food in the house. If buying this for myself were realistic right now, I would. Rather than asking for help replacing an entire wardrobe, instead I’m hoping to raise funds for a sewing setup that would allow me to efficiently alter clothing. My immediate goal is to alter thrifted and existing clothes so they actually fit my body. Long term, I hope these tools could also help me earn supplemental income in a way that works with my neurodivergence, whether that’s tailoring, clothing alterations, upcycling pieces from reclaimed fabric, or creating handmade items to sell online. Your support would help me invest in a long term solution that allows me to create clothing that fits and build a practical skill that could support me moving forward. If donating isn’t possible, sharing this fundraiser or sending encouragement means just as much. Thank you for taking the time to read my story and for helping me move closer to comfort, confidence, and a little more independence.