Dear Friends,
I am reaching out with a heart full of humility. Throughout my life, I’ve been the one offering support, care, and a helping hand to others. I’ve built businesses, mentored women, and opened my home to those in need. But today, I find myself in a position where I have no choice but to ask for help.
A Struggle with Chronic Illness and Setbacks
My journey through health challenges began in 1999 when I woke up paralyzed from the neck down, leading to diagnoses of Lupus, Fibromyalgia, and RA. Despite these conditions, I rebuilt my life and career, reducing my medications from 26 to just 2 through determination and excellent medical care.
Despite these challenges, I start a home improvement business and went back to school to obtain my MFA in interior design and I worked hard to build a life and a coaching business aimed at helping other women overcome trauma and take control of their health and wellness. However, my health has continued to decline, and in 2021, I was forced to face a series of devastating blows.
Since 2021, I’ve faced a cascade of devastating setbacks:
- December 2021: Underwent major back surgery
- Throughout 2022: Worked 7 days a week between my business and a new job as an interior designer
- December 2022: Suffered a severe muscle spasm requiring ambulance transport and two weeks of bedrest
- Early 2023: Continued working through pain while managing a home sale and move
- May 2023: Finally received MRI revealing a torn meniscus after months of physical therapy
- August 2023: Underwent knee surgery, but complications arose within 5 weeks
- November 2023: Second MRI showed another torn meniscus and complete loss of cartilage
- February 2024: Underwent total knee replacement
- April 2024: Required manipulation surgery due to excessive swelling and complications
Throughout this period, I’ve faced:
- Exhaustion of all short-term disability and medical leave
- Inability to continue working due to severe pain and mobility issues
- Mounting medical expenses and co-pays
- Failed attempts at debt resolution programs
- Unsuccessful investments in work-from-home opportunities while trying to maintain income
- Medication side effects that have left me in a cognitive fog
The compounded effect of these health crises has not only affected my physical well-being but has completely derailed my financial stability and ability to maintain my business and coaching practice.
Current Situation
- $70,000 in credit card debt accumulated from medical expenses and basic needs
- $65,000 in tax obligations from selling our rental property to downsize
- Vehicle broken down since May 2023
- Unable to work due to ongoing recovery and physical therapy
- Invested $14,000 into business opportunities and coaching programs trying to rebuild, but health complications prevented progress
My Goal
I’m seeking $160,000 to:
- Clear medical-related debt
- Handle tax obligations
- Restart my business helping other chronic illness survivors
- Cover essential therapy to complete my recovery
I’ve tried everything to keep going: taking on extra jobs, asking for hardship assistance, and even working through pain. But the reality is that I’m at a breaking point. My bills are overwhelming, and I’m struggling to continue paying for the basics.
I have always been a fighter, and I know that with the right support, I can rise from this and continue to serve and help others. I am asking for your generosity so I can rebuild and give back to those in need, as I have done for so many years.
Why Help – Your Support Would Mean Everything
Throughout my life, I’ve:
- Served our country in the military
- Provided shelter to women and children in crisis
- I reduced my medications from 26 to 2 through grit & determination
- Served on community boards and committees
- Never stopped fighting to give back to others
Even now, my goal isn’t just to recover financially – it’s to rebuild my coaching business so I can help other women navigate their health challenges and find joy in their lives again.
A Personal Note
Asking for help isn’t easy for me. I’ve always been the one others lean on. But I’ve learned that sometimes the strongest thing we can do is acknowledge when we need support. Any assistance, no matter the size, will help me get back to serving others and making a difference in my community.
Thank you for taking the time to read my story and consider helping.
Here is my paypal link: https://www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/NV3CV32WAH8PU
Or CashApp $ToniChavis63
With heartfelt gratitude,
Toni Chavis