Amber Santos Diaz

I’ve shared pictures of my phone showing my MyChart because I wasn’t sure what else I could provide as proof of my injury. I’m starting to feel better, but some movements are still painful. Riding in the car and picking things up can still hurt. I’m doing my best to return to work, but navigating accommodations has been difficult. I’m grateful for everyone who has supported me, checked on me, and helped me through this. Your kindness means more than you know. ❤️

I’m Amber, and I never imagined I would be in a position where I needed to ask for help for myself. I’m 53, divorced, helping raise my 3 grandchildren, and I’ve worked hard all my life, so asking for help is especially difficult for me. On August 20th, I fell and injured my rib. I went to urgent care on August 23rd, and then saw my primary doctor on August 27th, who believes I bruised my rib and sprained my costal cartilage. Because of this injury, I’ve been out of work and struggling to get accommodations and short-term disability approved. My doctor faxed over restrictions, including no lifting for 3 weeks, but I’ve been getting the runaround from my job. On top of that, I’m already living with rheumatoid arthritis, fibromyalgia, and degenerative disc disease, so this setback has been especially hard on my body and my daily life. I usually try to prepare for emergencies, but my savings have already been used, and I’ve maxed out my cards trying to keep up. I had even sold my stocks earlier to help my oldest son and grandchildren keep their home when they fell behind on the mortgage, so I don’t have that cushion anymore. Right now, I’m trying to cover basic living expenses like rent, my car payment, and other essential bills while I recover and fight to get the support I should have through work. I truly hate asking for help, but I really need it right now. Any donation, no matter the amount, or even sharing this fundraiser would mean so much to me and help me get through this difficult time with a little more stability and hope.