Affecting Tags

I just moved out of my one-bedroom apartment into a two bedroom apartment with a new roommate to help her out of a bad situation with her parents. A week after moving out, I was forced to resign from my job due to health issues affecting my quality scores. I was denied unemployment because of this, and now she's telling me that if I'm not able to pay rent, she will kick me out and either find a new roommate or get her own one-bedroom apartment. I have applied for every job I could find, and no one has called me back in over a month. Any help I can get would be loved and appreciated; if I can't make rent, I'll have to find somewhere to store my furniture and couch-hop for awhile until I can get back on my feet.

Hello there, my name is Lorraine. I am here as I need help. I am 43 with a child aged 13. New Years Eve 2010 I got married to a gentleman who I adored,hes 55 we didnt tell anyone we was doing this only our 2 witnesses. It was a gorgeous day. Feb 2011 I picked up my Husbands phone to another woman!I cannot tell you how devastated I was, I still am. This had been going on 10 months & whilst we planned our wedding day. He begged me for another chance which I gave him. We moved house for a "new start" which as it needed quite alot of work doing it took my mind off the problems. Well, it hasnt worked out & im devastated. The problem now is that although we are married as its only been a short time i'm not entitled to stay in the property. The mortgage is in my husbands name (long story)& it was his savings paid the deposit. I'm beginning to wonder if this was his plan all along. I have now got to move out before I lose my sanity. I have been sleeping in the spare room & my son is being affected by this atmosphere we live in which in turn is affecting his schoolwork. I dont claim benefits, I'm a hard worker & the only thing I have is my car which I am more than prepared to sell to pay a deposit to rent somewhere. Its not worth much though & I still need to travel to work (15miles) can anyone please consider helping me? If not me then consider my Son? I'm not asking for much, even a couple pence helps towards something. I'm a proud person & this is very difficult for me. Thankyou in advance to everyone that has read my letter.

This is highly embarassing for me to "cyber beg." Begging seems like such an awful word, but here I am asking for donations of anything! I don't care if it's 0.25 cents or $1. Anything helps.

I'm a struggling graphic designer in need of a new desktop Machintosh. I'm aiming to raise $1300 to buy a new iMac computer so that I can start designing to complete my portfolio and start applying for work. My last computer failed on me during finals in school. Thanks to my school's computer lab, I was able to finish my work and graduate. That was back in NYC. I couldn't afford living there on my own and had to come to a smaller town to live with parents. I worked minimum wage retail to gain some money, but the physical stress forced me to stop working due to muscle weakness problem I have. A medical affliction caused by a tumor that has been affecting my energy and skeletal/muscle strength for about 7 years. It was hard getting through school with my condition. It was twice as hard having to work on my feet for hours in a retail environment.

Double my misfortune, I live in a place where jobs are hard to come by. A small town which has a lot of developing to do and jobs are far between. I need a car to travel to the nearest grocery store and can't depend on parents to transport me everywhere. This is why a job is so imperative. I'd like to feel fulfilled knowing I'm doing something for my future and earning money to buy my needs. I wish I had the equipment to start looking for work.

I want an iMac more than anything in the world. If I had my iMac, I could update my portfolio, do some online freelance work and help my parents with some bills. I could start applying for jobs from home and not have to rely on my neighbor's iPad to browse the internet. Whenever my family goes to the mall in the weekends, I pass by our local Apple store and I see people walking out of the store with large boxes containing their brand new iMac's, Macbook Pro's or expensive iPad's...and I get angry.

Yes, I know it sounds terrible and I know not everyone buying a computer is a rich business mogul or an overpampered kid whose parents can buy them whatever they want, and they never have to worry about whether they could afford it or not. But it hurts me to know I'm in such a position, that although I am an adult who should be paying her parent's bills, I can't even help myself because I'm unemployed. No thanks to my stupid weak body that can't take a lot of physical strain, no thanks to ending up in a town where I can't get anywhere without having to walk at least two miles, no thanks to not having my computer...

My name is not Amelia. That is just a screen name because I am too embarassed to reveal my real name. I'd be so grateful to anyone that can help me reach my $1300 goal. I know Mac's are expensive, but they are the industry standard in what I do. I would like a desktop because they are durable and longer lasting. They can also take a lot processing power for the heavy graphic work I do. If you can find it in your time to spare any change .25 cents, $1, $5, I'll be grateful 'till eternity.

Anyone who donates, be kind to leave an email so that I can send you something in return for your favor.

Thank you and God bless,
ameliab2005@gmail.com

After undergoing treatments for breast cancer which included chemotherapy, I am still suffering from the side effects. One being the chemo damaged my teeth tremendously which is also affecting my health. I am disabled and do not have dental insurance. I am asking for anyone who is able to help contribute to me to get my teeth fixed. You would think that after have fought and beat cancer I would be smiling from ear-to-ear; but i don't because I am ashamed of my teeth. Please help! Any amount you can give is greatly appreciated. Thank you and God Bless

I need help to make the co-payments so I can get my teeth fixed. Please help me pay for much needed dental work which is severely affecting my health. Thank you for taking the time to read my request. This is very awkward but necessary since I'm out of options. I write this in faith that GOD will fill your heart with compassion. I have been entrusted to care for my 4 beautiful grandchildren. The only way I can fulfill this blessed opportunity is by regaining my self-esteem again.
Unfortunately I'm a victim of negligence and greed. After years of faulty dental work I’m left with no molars it’s very hard eat. I’m not looking for pity just a little bit of help. I just want to get my life back and be happy again.
I've lost all confidence and my joy. I suffer from depression because I cannot smile anymore. I wear a frown on my face something I thought I would never do. I was a happy person with a lust for life. But now I wear a frown on my face something I thought I would never do.
I’m paying the price for years of abuse. I’ve begged my husband (of 29 years) for help me but he refuse. I’ve become a recluse locked away in my bedroom. I need to (want to) go back to work. I want to live again. I just can’t do it on my own, so here I am.
I’m in need of financial assistance to pay for my dental work. I have insurance but I'm unable to make the co-payments. I’ve been looking for work in customer service since it’s hard to smile I’m left with rejection. My health is deteriorating. My teeth are rotting away. I’m left depressed and unhappy.
I pray GOD will hear me and answer my prayers today. I just want to laugh and smile again and be able to share my joy with family and friends. Your generous donation (small or large) will be greatly appreciated. May GOD's face shine on you. May you be blessed in JESUS now and forever, Amen. Aloha from PA

I’ve never asked for any kind of help before, and certainly not from people that I have never met! But my situation has become so desperate that I really do need help.
I have, for the last 15 years, struggled to make ends meet, following periods of ill-health, bad luck and catastrophic decision making. My circumstances are now very desperate indeed, and have even considered suicide.
In 1997 I suffered from a period of depression, that became so severe that I was forced to give up my job, and borrowed money to cover my mortgage and keep my house. Unfortunately the repayments on this ever increasing debt snowballed, and I found myself unable to meet my mortgage and household bills. I had ploughed my life savings into the home, and lost it all.
In 2006 I was approached by a friend, who was concerned for my financial circumstances, and suggested that we buy an old property, renovate it and sell it for a profit. I was desperate to make some money, and trusted my friend. I would refer you to full details of this in my Beg, as the project ended in complete failure having been ripped off by an unscrupulous builder. Work that should have taken 3 months took in excess of 9, and I ended up carrying out all the work myself. I regularly worked at the house from the early hours until well past midnight. The long hours left me exhausted, and in October 2008 I had a breakdown. I simply couldn’t carry on, and collapsed at work. My employer at the time was an unforgiving and vindictive man, and he said that I would be suspended if my work didn’t improve. I was afraid that I would lose my job, and under considerable psychological pressure from my employer I was forced to resign.
Following the failed business venture, which had plunged me into further debt, my breakdown and subsequent loss of my job, I simply couldn’t cope and pushed me into a long period of depression that became so severe that I planned to take my life. At the time I was so ill that I was unable to hold down a job, and this simply added to my woes - whilst out of work and undergoing intensive counselling I borrowed further. By the end of 2009 I was £15,000 ($23,250) in debt. I desperately want to rebuild my life now, but it is difficult to do so when I am saddled with a debt that is crippling me. Between 2009 and December 2010 my debt increased - there is no answer to it, and I will never ever me able to clear the £18,000 ($27,900) that I now owe. It is a debt that cripples me and prevents me from having a normal, happy life. I am 50 in February 2012, but have no future. I am tired of being worried, stressed, unable to sleep, and being depressed. Please, please help me start my life all over again. Please read my full story, and contact me if you have any questions. Thank you.

In November my wonderful, pregnant fiancé was suspended from her job as a lecturer and escorted from the building in humiliating fashion. She hadn't done anything to deserve this and after all this time and many, many letters later the college has provided no explanations, allegations, or testimonies to support their accusations.

The college has, however, made numerous unlawful actions since then regarding her status - for example, they have provided a risk assessment to prove they have accommodated her needs whilst pregnant except it's signed by everyone apart from my fiancé who has never seen it before in her life.

The final straw was this morning when her employers paid everyone except my fiancé and now we are left to pay all the bills and the mortgage with my low salary; I simply don't earn enough. Not to mention we are expecting our first child in March and whilst this is supposed to be such a happy time for us, it has been the most stressful. Neither of us can sleep properly and it's affecting my performance at work.

We fully intend to take the college to tribunal but that won't happen until the Summer and that's assuming we can afford to pay for a solicitor to take our case on.
We desperately need money to stay afloat or we will lose everything. Anything you can give, even if it's only one pound, will help. Please let me say a heartfelt thank you if you choose to donate.

I was seriously hurt in a car accident about 9 months ago (another driver came into my lane and hit me) which resulted in a herniated disk in my back that is causing unbearable pain. My husband was laid off from work approximately six weeks prior to the accident and we couldn't afford the COBRA premiums so we are without medical insurance as his new job doesn't have benefit (my employer does not offer health insurance either). The other driver was uninsured so I can't find an attorney to take the case on contingent fee since they don't want to waste their time when there isn't an insurance company to go after. I am in excruciating pain and surgery is the only option to stop the pain, but without insurance, there is no way that I can afford it. It's getting so bad that it's affecting my ability to work. I don't have any family members who are in a position to help either and can't believe that I've turned to this site, but have no other choice. Please help in any way that you can and I promise to donate to others on here once I am able to!

An American reject
Dear Sir or Madam,

I am writing because I have found an injustice that it seems no one else has noticed. I know that I am only one person, but they say one voice CAN make a difference.

I know many people who have made their share of mistakes  we all have sinned no one is perfect. Some just get caught up, can't afford a lawyer and   And want to confess, hoping there would be some type of leniency.  Considering they were young and didn't realize this would affect them the rest of their life. and i have tried to correct each mistake i  have made. The question I pose is how long is a person supposed to pay for those mistakes? Everyday I see people who are doing there best to clean up there life and get a job; but because they are felons/ or have a heinous misdemeanor as society feels that is a liability.  they are turned away from having a better life. That not only affects them and their families but it also affects society. If a man or woman is trying to lead an honest life and jobs are turning those individuals away what’s left? Go back to “the block”? If they get back in the streets they take the risk of losing there *freedom* but if they keep being turned away from jobs because of their past they risk losing there homes and families too. So what is a person to do after all we make mistakes.  Some are just smarter, or maybe they just know how to hold a lie like Casey anthony. But how is it fair for an employer to turn me away for being honest about my past. After all it was 13 years ago and did I ever really know how hard of a punishment and debt that I would half to pay to society as well to my unthought of family at the time.  My decision as a child is affecting my now 10 year old.  I made a mistake i feel like I would of been better off stoned to death I'n the center of the city.  Than to go on continue getting turned down left and right I don't know how long I can go on like this.  Where is the justice for me? Do I no longer have rights.  Am I considered a worthless piece of trash now that I have a conviction a black cloud holding over my head? From 13 years ago I was 18!!  How fair is that for my family NOW! Something needs to be done.  Justice for all!!! These employers shouldn't have the right to go as far back and discriminate. There should be a 7 year law.  After all there is a clean sleight after bankruptcy.  There able to wipe their debt clean as if they owed nothing.  Why can't we. Why is there some type of stigma.  For people that have been convicted and have never gotten convicted again.  That's showing you were trying to live as productive as we can I'n society.  But trying is the key word here because I feel I can't even get a chance!  

Despite what people may think, individuals who have records also have families they have to care for. Once a person has paid there debt to society for there crime and is making noticeable effort to clean up and live right they should have the opportunity to do just that, not be sentenced to a life of crime because there is no other way to survive. I’m sorry but McDonalds and Burger King just isn’t going to cut it with a 30 year old man or woman with 3 kids. This is supposed to be America, the land of opportunity and justice for all, but where is the justice for these people?

I feel very strongly about this and I would love to see justice made true. I plan to write every address and person I can find. I plan to be that one voice that is letting as many people know that this is wrong and unfair according to plain ethics and the so called American Dream.

I truly hope this reaches out to you and I hear back from you soon. I don’t know if a 32 year old female who is living a life like the one I explained above is going to make a difference but I can say at least I am trying make a difference.

It's verry hard for me. I can't find work. I have no health insurance. And recently I need work done on my mouth that I can't afford to pay for. I don't know where to turn. I can't afford a Christmas for my daughter. And if unemployment dint get passed for 2012 were screwed. There's been days of me going without to bed hungry so my daugter can eat. Sometimes I think of ending my life cuz I'm some useless pice of crap that can't make it I'n this word. But my daughter gives me strength and with god I know all this are possible. I won't give up, I'll keep fighting. It's just so hard. Abd it doesn't get any Easyer I'n this small town. If you know of anything that can help me and my child please feel free to call. 484-560-0090. Something's gotta give there's gotta be a way out... -Ceecee

Please remember Gods loves everyone and gave his life for EVERYONE to live even convicted misdemeanors.

Yours truly an American reject

HELLO, MY NAME IS LISA AND I HAVE A 15 YEAR OLD DAUGHTER, WHO IS REALLY TRYING IN SCHOOL, SHES BROUGHT UP HER GRADES BY QUITE A LOT ALREADY, BUT HER GRADES AND WORK REALLY SUFFER BECAUSE I CANT AFFORD A COMPUTER FOR HER TO DO HER HOMEWORK, CHECK HER GRADES, RESSEARCH, DO REPORTS... AND SHES THE ONLY ONE IN HER CLASSES THAT DOSN'T HAVE ONE, SO SHE GETS TEASED ALOT, EVEN BY HER TEACHERS FOR NOT BEING ABLE TO DO ALOT OF STUFF THAT HAS TO BE DONE ON A COMPUTER..

IT'S AFFECTING HER CLASSWORK, HER GRADES, HER SELF ESTEEM, AND IT'S MAKING ME FEEL SO BAD, SO NEEDY, AND SO POOR..... AND NOW IT'S THANKSGIVING, AND CHRISTMAS, AND THERE WILL BE NO WAY FOR ME TO AFFORD ONE, EVEN THOUGH IT'S HER ONLY ITEM ON HER CHRISTMAS LIST.... I FEEL LIKE A TOTAL FLOP...
I VE TRIED EVERYTHING I COULD THINK OF, UNTIL NOW WHEN I FOUND THIS BEG SITE, SO IM GIVING THIS ONE A TRY TO...

IF THERE IS ANYWAY YOU CAN HELP, DONATE TOWARDS BUYING ONE, DONATING HER A COMPUTER...A CHRISTMAS GIFT...YOU JUST WANT TO HELP A NEEDY MOM AND A STRUGGLING STUDENT WHO IS TRYING AND COULD REALLY USE SOME HELP...PLEASE HELP US.. ANYTHING WILL HELP...WE BOTH WILL THANK YOU FOREVER... lISA AND TRISHA...

I am a mother of two who works a full time job at home because I cannot afford childcare. I am working hard to pay my bills the best I can but due to recent events, i have fallen behind, which is now affecting my young children. I was not able to buy then new school clothes and and worry that they will not be able to enjoy yet another christmas. Also, my daughter is now getting made fun of for her small clothing. Because I want to spend time with my children and help take care of my sick sister and daughter, I am unable to find a second job. I am begging for any amount of money that you can donate. The total I need for bills is 2200.00. I know there are a lot of people that have it worse off than me, but giving my kids a Christmas and seeing them smile would mean the world to me and my family.

I can’t believe my life has come to this. First and foremost, it is important to know that I am a hardworking, responsible individual. I love going to work every day as a child and family therapist knowing that I have the ability to help make positive changes in others’ lives. I also, for whatever reason, feel very uncomfortable asking for help. I don’t think I have ever asked anyone for financial help in my life, let alone a “donation”. I was always taught that if you want something…. YOU WORK FOR IT! I have had a job since I was 13 yrs old and it taught me to appreciate the value of the dollar and hard work. But what happens when you physically can’t? My values speak to who I was, who I am and who I want to be and why I am worthy of your help.
• Be respectful, giving, loving and kind to others.
• Treat others as you would want to be treated.
• First and foremost dedication to my family and friends
• If you want something, you have to work for it because nothing in life is free
• Work hard and you can achieve anything you set your mind to
• If you believe in something, be passionate about it
• Love what you do for work – Life is too short
• Do not be selfish, but selfless – be there or give to others as much as you can
Resilient for many years –struggling through a childhood of undiagnosed ADHD - low self esteem, disruptive and impulsive behaviors, poor attention, disorganization, ambivalence about making life decisions, flunking out of college my freshman yr at 18 yo (which led to me having to pay any subsequent schooling on my own), moving and attending a new school at the beginning of my 8th grade year with a scoliosis brace that had to be worn 23 hours a day, having major surgery at 14 yo and missing 3 months of my freshman yr. As an adult, moving from NJ to Ma away from my family who I was extremely close to due to a marriage that didn’t work, losing my father to cancer and watching him waste away in front of me and feeling helpless. I did return to school as an adult committed to helping others and figuring out my own insecurities. Over 7 yrs (25-32 yrs old) received my bachelors degree from Rutgers University with high honors and my masters in clinical social work from Columbia University also with honors.
I know what I am capable of and I know how much I have to give to others. But at this point in my life, I also need to be honest with myself about my physical limitations.
When I was 12 yo I was diagnosed with a severe case of scoliosis and had to wear a body brace for 1 ½ yrs. Bad timing, I guess… I had just moved and was starting my 8th grade yr in a new school. Two yrs later (1983) I had major reconstructive surgery (14 hours, in a body cast 6 mos, couldn’t ride in a car or sit for more than 15 mins a day for 3 mos) and my spine was fused from T3 to L4 – all at 14 yo! Over the years, my back problems were just “part of my life”. Now at 43 I am disabled and in need of another major surgery due to collapsed discs that are compressing the nerves in my lower back. The pain I endure is affecting my ability to sit, stand or walk to any period of time. I had to leave my last job as an outpatient therapist a couple of years ago due to my inability to commit to a schedule because of my pain. I have been taking pain pills, which I do not want to become addicted to and have worked out an arrangement with a caring chiropractor. Not to mention at work I have kids, teens and their families who depend on me to help them, some of who I don’t charge because they can’t afford it. So, my schedule is minimal, my bills are racking up and I continue to try to help people sometimes at my own expense (physical). I have no health insurance because I can’t afford it, I live in a 800 square foot apartment that I share and I drive a 1998 Nissan Maxima that has over 200,000 miles on it! I don’t have “things” because I don’t NEED material things. It kills me to ask for help, especially monetary. It’s hard for me to accept help but I have no problem giving, lending or helping other people. My friends say that I give “too much”, but I feel that if I have it to give or I can do something to help someone else be happier, less stressed or more comfortable than I will. And I’ve been taken advantage of many times because of this – for example, 3 yrs ago, I lent a co-worker $5000 to assure that as a single mother she would have a dependable car for her and her 3 kids. She has not paid me anything yet. Gave another friend my car for 2 weeks to use because her car was in the shop and she couldn’t afford a rental. It was definitely an inconvenience, having to walk to and from work a mile, having to way to run errands until the weekend, etc. But I did it because I knew how much it meant to her and how much it helped. I then find myself thinking … who will be my angel when I need one?? And I do…. Please, please help!! I don’t have a choice right now. I need surgery, physical therapy/personal training in order to continue working for others. Thank you so much for any contribution you can make! God Bless!
College Loans: $60,000
Surgery: $250,000
Credit card debt $40,000 over last 8 yrs to support me at times when couldn’t work
Physical Therapy $2,000
Bills 3 mos $5,000 during recovery time

Wow… that’s hard to see… : ( Feel like I’m on the verge of a nervous breakdown!! Please be my angel

I can’t believe my life has come to this. First and foremost, it is important to know that I am a hardworking, responsible individual. I love going to work every day as a child and family therapist knowing that I have the ability to help make positive changes in others’ lives. I also, for whatever reason, feel very uncomfortable asking for help. I don’t think I have ever asked anyone for financial help in my life, let alone a “donation”. I was always taught that if you want something…. YOU WORK FOR IT! I have had a job since I was 13 yrs old and it taught me to appreciate the value of the dollar and hard work. But what happens when you physically can’t? My values speak to who I was, who I am and who I want to be and why I am worthy of your help.
Be respectful, giving, loving and kind to others.
Treat others as you would want to be treated.
First and foremost dedication to my family and friends
If you want something, you have to work for it because nothing in life is free
Work hard and you can achieve anything you set your mind to
If you believe in something, be passionate about it
Love what you do for work – Life is too short
Do not be selfish, but selfless – be there or give to others as much as you can
Resilient for many years –struggling through a childhood of undiagnosed ADHD - low self esteem, disruptive and impulsive behaviors, poor attention, disorganization, ambivalence about making life decisions, flunking out of college my freshman yr at 18 yo (which led to me having to pay any subsequent schooling on my own), moving and attending a new school at the beginning of my 8th grade year with a scoliosis brace that had to be worn 23 hours a day, having major surgery at 14 yo and missing 3 months of my freshman yr. As an adult, moving from NJ to Ma away from my family who I was extremely close to due to a marriage that didn’t work, losing my father to cancer and watching him waste away in front of me and feeling helpless. I did return to school as an adult committed to helping others and figuring out my own insecurities. Over 7 yrs (25-32 yrs old) received my bachelors degree from Rutgers University with high honors and my masters in clinical social work from Columbia University also with honors.
I know what I am capable of and I know how much I have to give to others. But at this point in my life, I also need to be honest with myself about my physical limitations.
When I was 12 yo I was diagnosed with a severe case of scoliosis and had to wear a body brace for 1 ½ yrs. Bad timing, I guess… I had just moved and was starting my 8th grade yr in a new school. Two yrs later (1983) I had major reconstructive surgery (14 hours, in a body cast 6 mos, couldn’t ride in a car or sit for more than 15 mins a day for 3 mos) and my spine was fused from T3 to L4 – all at 14 yo! Over the years, my back problems were just “part of my life”. Now at 43 I am disabled and in need of another major surgery due to collapsed discs that are compressing the nerves in my lower back. The pain I endure is affecting my ability to sit, stand or walk to any period of time. I had to leave my last job as an outpatient therapist a couple of years ago due to my inability to commit to a schedule because of my pain. I have been taking pain pills, which I do not want to become addicted to and have worked out an arrangement with a caring chiropractor. Not to mention at work I have kids, teens and their families who depend on me to help them, some of who I don’t charge because they can’t afford it. So, my schedule is minimal, my bills are racking up and I continue to try to help people sometimes at my own expense (physical). I have no health insurance because I can’t afford it, I live in a 800 square foot apartment that I share and I drive a 1998 Nissan Maxima that has over 200,000 miles on it! I don’t have “things” because I don’t NEED material things. It kills me to ask for help, especially monetary. It’s hard for me to accept help but I have no problem giving, lending or helping other people. My friends say that I give “too much”, but I feel that if I have it to give or I can do something to help someone else be happier, less stressed or more comfortable than I will. And I’ve been taken advantage of many times because of this – for example, 3 yrs ago, I lent a co-worker $5000 to assure that as a single mother she would have a dependable car for her and her 3 kids. She has not paid me anything yet. Gave another friend my car for 2 weeks to use because her car was in the shop and she couldn’t afford a rental. It was definitely an inconvenience, having to walk to and from work a mile, having to way to run errands until the weekend, etc. But I did it because I knew how much it meant to her and how much it helped. I then find myself thinking … who will be my angel when I need one?? And I do…. Please, please help!! I don’t have a choice right now. I need surgery, physical therapy/personal training in order to continue working for others. Thank you so much for any contribution you can make! God Bless!
College Loans: $60,000
Surgery: $250,000
Credit card debt $40,000 over last 8 yrs to support me at times when couldn’t work
Physical Therapy $2,000
Bills 3 mos $5,000 during recovery time

Wow… that’s hard to see… : ( Feel like I’m on the verge of a nervous breakdown!! Please be my angel

I can’t believe my life has come to this. First and foremost, it is important to know that I am a hardworking, responsible individual. I love going to work every day as a child and family therapist knowing that I have the ability to help make positive changes in others’ lives. I also, for whatever reason, feel very uncomfortable asking for help. I don’t think I have ever asked anyone for financial help in my life, let alone a “donation”. I was always taught that if you want something…. YOU WORK FOR IT! I have had a job since I was 13 yrs old and it taught me to appreciate the value of the dollar and hard work. But what happens when you physically can’t? My values speak to who I was, who I am and who I want to be and why I am worthy of your help.
• Be respectful, giving, loving and kind to others.
• Treat others as you would want to be treated.
• First and foremost dedication to my family and friends
• If you want something, you have to work for it because nothing in life is free
• Work hard and you can achieve anything you set your mind to
• If you believe in something, be passionate about it
• Love what you do for work – Life is too short
• Do not be selfish, but selfless – be there or give to others as much as you can
Resilient for many years –struggling through a childhood of undiagnosed ADHD - low self esteem, disruptive and impulsive behaviors, poor attention, disorganization, ambivalence about making life decisions, flunking out of college my freshman yr at 18 yo (which led to me having to pay any subsequent schooling on my own), moving and attending a new school at the beginning of my 8th grade year with a scoliosis brace that had to be worn 23 hours a day, having major surgery at 14 yo and missing 3 months of my freshman yr. As an adult, moving from NJ to Ma away from my family who I was extremely close to due to a marriage that didn’t work, losing my father to cancer and watching him waste away in front of me and feeling helpless. I did return to school as an adult committed to helping others and figuring out my own insecurities. Over 7 yrs (25-32 yrs old) received my bachelors degree from Rutgers University with high honors and my masters in clinical social work from Columbia University also with honors.
I know what I am capable of and I know how much I have to give to others. But at this point in my life, I also need to be honest with myself about my physical limitations.
When I was 12 yo I was diagnosed with a severe case of scoliosis and had to wear a body brace for 1 ½ yrs. Bad timing, I guess… I had just moved and was starting my 8th grade yr in a new school. Two yrs later (1983) I had major reconstructive surgery (14 hours, in a body cast 6 mos, couldn’t ride in a car or sit for more than 15 mins a day for 3 mos) and my spine was fused from T3 to L4 – all at 14 yo! Over the years, my back problems were just “part of my life”. Now at 43 I am disabled and in need of another major surgery due to collapsed discs that are compressing the nerves in my lower back. The pain I endure is affecting my ability to sit, stand or walk to any period of time. I had to leave my last job as an outpatient therapist a couple of years ago due to my inability to commit to a schedule because of my pain. I have been taking pain pills, which I do not want to become addicted to and have worked out an arrangement with a caring chiropractor. Not to mention at work I have kids, teens and their families who depend on me to help them, some of who I don’t charge because they can’t afford it. So, my schedule is minimal, my bills are racking up and I continue to try to help people sometimes at my own expense (physical). I have no health insurance because I can’t afford it, I live in a 800 square foot apartment that I share and I drive a 1998 Nissan Maxima that has over 200,000 miles on it! I don’t have “things” because I don’t NEED material things. It kills me to ask for help, especially monetary. It’s hard for me to accept help but I have no problem giving, lending or helping other people. My friends say that I give “too much”, but I feel that if I have it to give or I can do something to help someone else be happier, less stressed or more comfortable than I will. And I’ve been taken advantage of many times because of this – for example, 3 yrs ago, I lent a co-worker $5000 to assure that as a single mother she would have a dependable car for her and her 3 kids. She has not paid me anything yet. Gave another friend my car for 2 weeks to use because her car was in the shop and she couldn’t afford a rental. It was definitely an inconvenience, having to walk to and from work a mile, having to way to run errands until the weekend, etc. But I did it because I knew how much it meant to her and how much it helped. I then find myself thinking … who will be my angel when I need one?? And I do…. Please, please help!! I don’t have a choice right now. I need surgery, physical therapy/personal training in order to continue working for others. Thank you so much for any contribution you can make! God Bless!
College Loans: $60,000
Surgery: $250,000
Credit card debt $40,000 over last 8 yrs to support me at times when couldn’t work
Physical Therapy $2,000
Bills 3 mos $5,000 during recovery time

Wow… that’s hard to see… : ( Feel like I’m on the verge of a nervous breakdown!! Please be my angel

Hello, my name is Sarah O'Brien. Four years ago my mother was diagnosed with cancer. The doctors told us there was nothing they could do. She came home and suffered. Myself and my daughter lived with her and my father. She was my daughters best friend. We watched her suffer and die. It tore my family apart. We used to be so close but she was our glue. My father moved to Kentucky and remarried. My sisters and I barely speak and my little brother who also lived with them lives in a motel room now. I couldn't bare to see the house be sold so I purchased it. My daughter is so proud to tell people that she was born in this house. I worked for TD Bank for 11 years. I was a hard working and dedicated employee. Six years later a new manager arrived named Liz. She was an abusive maniac. Harassed and belittled everyone any chance she got. I couldn't take it anymore after 5 years of this. I was suffering severe anxiety and it was affecting my health. I went out on sick leave and have been struggling ever since. She is still there after several complaints and I am now losing my mothers house which I wanted so much to save. This house is all that we have left of her and all my childhood memories are in this house. Please if anyone has it in their heart to help I would forever be grateful. Thank you so much in advance! If you can help please email me at sarahobrien4602@comcast.net Thank you, Sarah

Hi. I cant believe I;m begging online. I expect no response to this, but view it as a place to vent. Good things just haven't happened to me for a long time. Here I go anyway... I am writing because I am in desperate need for help. I am a 35 year old single dad with a 9 year old daughter. Let me begin by explaining my situation. My former employer, in the building supply industry, went out of business a few years ago. The economy has not rebounded making building industry jobs scarce. I have since then put myself through schooling to become an emergency medical technician as I stand a chance at getting hired by my local fire department if the economy improves. I am aiming for a career change to get back into the work force. I had to change careers for economic as well as health reasons. Shortly after my company went out of business, I was diagnosed with Crohn’s disease, a debilitating disease affecting the digestive tract. The disease caused me to lose 75 lbs (30% of my body mass) in 8 months. I have been proactive in drastically changing my diet and getting the proper medical care and medicine (Thank God for Medicaid).
Even with medical care, I am still sick every day but I am making the disease more manageable. I applied for disability and received a response back that my condition is indeed disabling, preventing me from working, but would resolve in a year. Hopefully it does, but it is classified as an incurable disease that leads to repeated surgeries in 75% of the patients diagnosed with the disease. On the flip side of that statistic is a growing hope that alternative therapies may work… but take time to custom tailor to the individual. They are also expensive and not covered by Medicaid or private sector insurance. I have spoken to a disability attorney who is ready to represent me if necessary. I am only seeking disability as my “Plan B” if all else fails. I want to become a productive member of society again. I do have a “Plan A”, but I have a LOT of obstacles ahead of me.
This has all had a devastating effect on my finances. Last summer my gas was turned off the day after my daughter’s heart surgery. The gas was turned back on based on medical necessity. As of this week, my gas is turned off again and LIHEAP cannot assist me. I can’t seem to ever have the “Timing” right to get assistance. My electric is also on the verge of being shut off. My home is in foreclosure but the bank has agreed to work with me if I can find employment fast. I have just received a job offer that I graciously accepted. I start in a week. Just before receiving the job offer, while biking with my daughter, I had a mini stroke which caused me to go unconscious while riding. I crashed, broke my ribs, clavicle, hurt my spine, bruised my brain and lung, received several stitches, etc.. I pray that my health stabilizes to allow me to work. My daughter lives with me in this house. I would like to save it from foreclosure mainly for her sake. It’s where she has grown up. It’s a few blocks from her school where I want to keep her. My adopted 9 year old daughter, who I love a lot, has a very difficult speech impediment and learning disability. She already has special education and speech therapy in place with professionals that have worked with her for many years and know her needs. It would be very difficult to have to move away and have to make her start over in another school. I love my daughter a lot and will do anything to provide for her a life that she deserves… with my own limited resources. I say all that to illustrate “in short” that I need help. I have asked relatives and friends for help throughout the year and they are “Tapped”. My church is also in the same situation. I have sold most of my possessions to afford my phone bill, auto insurance, and auto fuel. My daughter and I currently have Medicaid and SNAP food assistance.
My goals are to:
1) I need to rebuild my professional wardrobe. I have lost a lot of weight and consequently have been working on buying dress clothes for my new job. I am to wear solid black suits. I am a 44L with a 38” Waist and 34” Inseam. Size 14 Black oxford shoes. I will graciously accept presentable used items. I can buy 3 inexpensive nice black suits for $80 each. $50 for shoes.
2) I have to keep going to my doctors and maintain and improve my health. I have just been referred off for advanced level care. The travel expenses are going to be very high. I will have to stay overnight in a hotel somehow for some procedures.
3) I will have to afford to drive to work. I will have to keep myself insured and afford the initial cash outset for my first 2-3 weeks of work. I am traveling far to work and it will cost me about $125 a week in fuel. $60/ month in insurance.
4) I have to get my gas turned back on. I am looking at having to come up with an impossible $5000 to get it turned back on.
5) I just bought and installed an used electric water heater and dryer. I have no way as of yet to heat my house this winter.
6) I have to catch up on my $1500 electric bill. Hopefully I can do so or I will have to abandon my house and give up hope. I may have to move to a different state with different utility companies.
7) If I can accomplish the above goals in a short amount of time, I stand a very strong chance at getting my mortgage modified and staying in my home. I can then only have to worry about the basics of life in addition to my health and my daughter’s heart and special needs.
I am facing some tough challenges. I cannot do it on my own. I have nowhere to turn. I would appreciate any assistance or advice on where to go for assistance.
Thank you for taking the time to read this letter. I appreciate your help.

Hello! I'm a mom of two lovely girls, whom I put through college right before the economy got bad. I'm a nurse, and work full time or more per week, even though I'm technically retirement age. After the economy collapsed, I had to take a lower paying nursing job helping babies that were born too early. Unfortunately, I am now behind on paying the huge mountain of college bills. It's affecting my credit, and I feel awful for having to ask for help, but I DO work for a living, and if I can get help to pay for these college bills I'll be in better shape to pay all my other bills like electric, and fix my ceiling. Thank you very much for anything extra you happen to have.

I drowning in debt, struggling to make ends meet, terrified of being out of a job, and currently working for a company that will be making redundancies, struggling to buy food for the family and robbing Peter to pay Paul.

I owe a large sum of money to my parents. I cannot pay them back in the present economic climate. Both parents have retired to a country were they were both born and in the meantime my Mother’s brothers and sisters have deceased in the last few years and she dying slowly of not seeing her children and being alone I a remote part of country. My Mother is in poor health and needs medication regularly to try to get better. The only way to help her is get her back to the UK to be with her love ones and those care for her. This involves buying a small home or converting ours. This will depend if there are any offers of help from someone who has the funds or heart to help us. Being isolated and alone in a third world country where crime is higher than the UK just makes life so much harder to bear.


This situation is affecting my happiness with my immediate family and could break us apart. I am scared of what the future holds and have no where to turn and I taking my problems out on family. Thank for reading this message.

I am so ashamed to do this, but my shame wont allow me to make my Granddaughter suffer. I am a Grandmother with lupus, fibromyalgia, celieac disease (that is affecting my heart, lungs, kidneys) attempting to raise a beautiful eight year old little girl who has extreme issues from her memories after having been rescued from a home in which her father was making drugs. I address her emtional issues by creating the most peaceful environment possible, but my inability to even keep the electric on this month and the fact that my husband left and moved to TX, taking the car with him, has left me completely without resources and a shutoff notice on water and electric. Only complete desparation would drive me to have come to this website and any help that anyone can offer will be GREATLY appriciated and wisely used. Thank you. I feel a little better just knowing that I now someone else knows. Thank you. Thank you.

hello my name is thobeka ndelu.I'm a ukzn student in south africa howard campus doing my second year.last year 2010 when i was doing my 1st year i didn't get financial assistance from the university luckly this year i got it but the problem is that my outstanding fees for last year are affecting me this year.the university said i need to pay my outstanding fees this year and finish paying or else i wont be able to come back next year to finish my studies.i live with my grand mother she's a pensioner she can not afford to pay for my fees they are to much i dont even know what to do anymore please help me my fees are R20.000 my email is ndelutk@gmail.com. i will be so happy if i get assistance thank you

hello my name is thobeka ndelu.I'm a ukzn student in south africa howard campus doing my second year.last year 2010 when i was doing my 1st year i didn't get financial assistance from the university luckly this year i got it but the problem is that my outstanding fees for last year are affecting me this year.the university said i need to pay my outstanding fees this year and finish paying or else i wont be able to come back next year to finish my studies.i live with my grand mother she's a pensioner she can not afford to pay for my fees they are to much i dont even know what to do anymore please help me my fees are R20.000 my email is ndelutk@gmail.com. i will be so happy if i get assistance

I am a single dad with 2 children. My eldest daughter is autistic. Their mother sadly passed away age 41 in 2006. I have a mortgaged house and am a full time carer and unable to work. We are haveing a terrible time with local neigjbours and the locals in general. We are being victimised and my property and car have been vandleised many times. Neighbours have caused criminal damage to my front door and thrown oblects at our windows. They have trashed my car and written it off in the past. They have let tyres down over night and ruined my windscreen on a previous car by fireing airgun pellets at it. This intimidation has been going on for several years. It has got a point now where it is affecting our lives and our health. We are living here in fear. Just a couple of days ago someone has caused serious damge to the hatchback of my car overnight. Just a few weeks ago someone painted a skull and crossbonesin front of our house. They have thrown things at our windows in the middle of the night. The police cannot take any action because we cant prove who is doing it. I now fear for the safety of myself and my 2 children. I would like to sell my modest house(which needs several repairs) and move into a rented house as i cannot get a mortgage as i am in my 50s and a carer. I have no savings whatsoever. I need around £7.000 to secure a rented place and to pay off some crippling debts. Please could anyone help in any way. We desperately need to move for our sanity and safety. My autistic daughter is suffering because of this and.my son has lost all confidence in himself and is developing depression. Please help in any way you can. I genuinely fear for our safety here.thankyou for takeing the time to read this cry for help. And please contact me if you can help in ANY way. We must get away from here. Peace and God bless you.

Ten years ago I never imagined life for my kids would be worse today instead of better but that is what has happened to my family. After the housing bubble burst I lost my job in construction and haven't been able to find work since. Since I was considered "self-employed" I was not eligible to receive unemployment benefits so when my car broke down I could not afford to fix it. When I defaulted on my student loan payments I lost my eligibility for financial aid so I cannot return to finish college which is something I always wanted to do, and appears to be the only way out of poverty. We are about to lose our home to foreclosure and have no way to pay right now. Our utility bills are behind and this pressure is affecting our relationships to the point of arguing over the smallest thing because we never have any money.
Please help us with any kind of donation. Thank You

robertc29@live.com

My wife Linda and I moved to FL.to help my brother ..well now we are trapped in his house because we can't come up with first and last months rent for an apt.
Linda finally found a part time job bt only makes enough to get back and forth to work and pay the ins. on our van.
I am an unemployed cnc operator who used to work for a furniture co..or should I say we?
My wife was injured and we spent our life savings on getting the surgery she needed to keep her arm!
We need a hand up!I hate to ask but if swallowing my pride will help I am more than willing to do what it takes just to live without strife.I worry all the time and it is affecting my health and sanity...
Please help us by sending any amount you feel to my paypal account craigwj65@gmail.com ...I have all of fourteen dollars in my paypal acct. and I am donating it to anyone who may need it more...Thanks in advance! Craig...Please don't tell my wife I am begging..I don't want her to cry!

I have a rare disease, Relapsing Polychondritis and need help. My disease is slowly affecting the cartilege all over my body and lots of days I'm in severe pain and never have a day without any pain at all. I have 12+ prescriptions, but can't fill them all as insurance doesn't pay for them all. I see different doctors on a regular basis along with lab work and tests. I'm 59 and my husband of 34 years is 67. He continues to work so I will have health insurance. He also runs a paper route 3 nights a week with my help some of the time. I can't work..I was a hair stylist and child care provider...but since I don't have enough work credits the last 10 years, I can't get disability. Under the guidelines, we have too much income for government/state help. Yes, too much, hahaha, hubby makes 9.00 an hour at his security job.
I worry about him since he is getting older. Please, please, please help. If I could pay for my health insurance, he could retire. Since I have a pre-existing condition, i would use COBRA for 18 months and then convert to a private policy until I qualify for medicare which my husband now uses.
Thanks for reading my post. Any contribution would be welcomed and appreciated more than you could know.