Laura Smith

My name is Laura, and I am reaching out for help as I recover from knee replacement surgery. The past several months have been incredibly challenging. After being laid off from my job, I found myself without unemployment benefits and quickly depleted my savings. I had to move out of my rental home and put all my belongings into a storage unit, which I am still paying for because I am unable to sort through or empty it while I recover. During this time, I was homeless for six weeks, undergoing one medical procedure after another, and now I am facing the long road of recovery from knee replacement surgery. I do not have anyone to lean on financially during this difficult period. My resources are exhausted, and I am struggling to cover out-of-pocket medical expenses like surgery, physical therapy, anesthesia copays, Food and my regular bills. *Feb. 22,2026 Scar tissue is hindering me from achieving full range of motion in the critical time period. I may have to have a manipulation done by surgeon, which would mean a trip to surgery across the bay, being put to sleep, more intense physical therapy and longer recovery time. I’m trying so hard, but am exhausted. Your support would mean the world to me as I work to heal and rebuild my life. I am eager to return to my passion for Eastern Shore of Virginia history—giving lectures, filming oral history interviews, researching and writing articles, and creating art. I am committed to continuing these projects on my own, sharing and preserving the stories that matter. Any donation or even sharing my story would make a huge difference. Thank you for taking the time to read about my journey and for considering helping me during this challenging time. If you would prefer, please mail Food Lion gift cards or checks to me at PO Box 412 Eastville, VA 23347