I want to take this moment to say THANK YOU.
When I started this GoFundMe, I was not sure what to expect. Honestly, asking for help has never been easy for me. An issue that many friends and partners have slapped me in the back of the head for not understanding that simple need—metaphorically speaking…for some of them.
As a recovering latchkey kid, I learned early how to be independent. I learned how to figure things out, how to keep moving, how to not ask too much of anyone. As I got older, that independence became part of how I handled almost everything, even when I probably should have reached out sooner.
There have been times in my life when I needed help and had no choice but to accept it. But I do not think I ever truly trusted that people would show up for me just because they cared. I did not really trust the universe, or people, to be kind in that way.
This week, I learned I was wrong.
After being diagnosed with kidney disease, I went into survival mode. I told myself I could muscle through it, do what needed to be done, and not bother anyone with my problems. The world already feels heavy enough. There are already so many people dealing with so much. I did not want to impose on anyone or make my struggles someone else's burden.
But thanks to therapy, my friends, I am finally beginning to understand that no man is an island.
What you all did for me was not small. Your donations, your messages, your shares, your encouragement, and your kindness have helped keep me going a little longer. More than that, they reminded me that I am not as alone as I convinced myself I was.
I am genuinely humbled. I am grateful. And I will not forget this.
Thank you for standing up for me when I finally admitted I needed help.
