In July of 2020. i was assaulted and beaten by a group of people during civil unrest in Chicago. At that time the pandemic was raging, hospitals were overwhelmed, and i did not receive proper medical care for my injuries while in the hospital. This left me unable to work or function normally for an extended period of rime, but I am a fighter and have been pushing through as best as I can.

I have been healing from traumatic brain injury, post-concussion syndrome, post trauma vision syndrome, PTSD, aphasia, brain fog and exhaustion, a collapsed septum, and autistic burnout. Healing has required help and massive amounts of rest. It was necessary to work to survive, and so I held down a part-time job to stay afloat, despite the issues this caused to my recovery. 

Earlier this year in May, I had to leave my job due to denial of ADA accommodations, harassment, and retaliation. I had plans to relocate overseas for a time to continue rest and heal, but i have had medical issues emerge that necessitate me staying here to receive medical care. It is likely I will need to have reconstructive surgery on my nose and face due to the assault, as the septum surgery in 2021 didn't correct the issue. 

The EEOC agreed to file charges on my behalf, but the agency's operations are currently suspended due to the government shutdown. Having time to.rest this summer has made a huge difference in my ability to function, and I am earnestly looking to return to work full-time. I am unsure if i'll be able to maintain it, but I.am going to try!

Unfortunately the situation in the US has been escalating. I rely on SNAP benefits to keep food in my house, but Illinois has advised recipients we will not be receiving them in November. I am severely behind on bills. My SSDI benefit covers rent but nothing else, I have been hustling to keep my phone and internet on and have applied for additional assistance, but my situation is dire and i am at risk of my utilities being shut off.

I came out as transgender (non-binary/transmasc, he/they) and started HRT in 2022, which has been life-saving and affirming., completely changed my life for the better, although in these times i am unable to pursue gender affirming surgery due to being on Medicaid/Medicare and am worried about losing access to HRT. I'M A FIGHTER. I will not give up, but I will not make it through without help. Things are tense in Chicago,.and my neighborhood in particular has been targeted by CBP and ICE agents. I have rallied with my neighbors to patrol and protect the community, helping keep watch at nearby elementary schools and patrolling the streets. 

Small town Ohio taught me the power and strength of neighbors and community support, and I will continue to fight for myself, my neighbors, and the other 42 million people.who are also losing their SNAP benefits next month. If you know me, i'm sure you wouldn't expect any less 𖹭.

I need to raise enough funds to  ensure my essentials are covered and I am fed until I secure a new job. I am deeply grateful for any help you can give, and I am looking forward to giving back at the first opportunity. 

Thank you.