Hello, my name is Mary.

For as long as I can remember, I’ve dreamed of having my own reliable car — and for me it’s not a luxury, it’s a lifeline. I’m a 36-year-old Black woman living with ongoing back problems, and walking long distances or standing for too long can be genuinely painful and exhausting. Having a car would mean I could get to appointments, work, and daily errands without pushing my body past its limits.

Recently, an opportunity came up that I honestly couldn’t ignore. A neighbour’s relative is selling a Volkswagen that I fell in love with the moment I saw it. They’ve been completely transparent: the car had serious damage in the past, but it’s been professionally restored, which is why it’s being offered at a price I can actually reach.

I can pay part of the cost, and they’ve kindly offered me a payment plan — but I’m still £2,000 short. This is my real chance to finally have safe, dependable transport and a bit more independence in my life.

So I’m asking, with humility, for support from my community, friends, and anyone who feels moved to help. Any amount — no matter how small — brings me closer to this goal.

From the bottom of my heart, thank you for reading and for your kindness.