Jamie Warner

I left my previous relationship because it was a domestic relationship filled with jealousy, accusations, and controlling behavior. My partner would not let my kids visit me, and I often had to leave just to see them. During those times, he would bring other women into the house, and his actions made me feel isolated and unloved. He told me nobody wanted me, and eventually, I found the courage to leave without him knowing. I went to a women and children’s shelter before asking my kids if I could stay with them. Eventually, I got my own apartment, but I gave it up to help one of my children who was struggling with addiction. I realized I was enabling him by letting him stay with me, so I chose to live with my other children to avoid losing everything again. Living with my grandchildren was a blessing, but it also made it easy to spend money on others and not think about my own needs. My days were filled with work and caring for my family, but one day, I became very ill after coming in contact with influenza A-B. I developed double pneumonia, which quickly led to sepsis. I have COPD and chronic asthma, and I ended up in the hospital, unable to breathe. My children had to make difficult decisions for me as I was placed on a ventilator. I developed sepsis, had a tracheostomy, and needed surgery to remove an abscess from my lung. After extensive rehabilitation, I was finally able to come home to my daughter’s house. Now, I want to take the next step and have a home of my own. I want my kids and grandkids to visit me, to have a place where I can host dinners and sleepovers, and to feel proud of myself again. Living without my own space has left me feeling like I’ve failed, but I am determined to show my family—and myself—that I can be independent and happy. Your support would mean the world to me as I work to rebuild my life and create a safe, loving home for myself and my family.