Financial help for Single Mom & Business Owner

7 years ago, I met one of those few people in life who had an immediate impact and forever touched my soul.  Eileen Phoenix is an acupuncturist, a kind & compassionate human being who has dedicated her life towards helping others heal from various illnesses while caring for her severely autistic daughter Kasey.  Her business and livelihood has been devastated as a result of Covid and she has not been able to make ends meet, pay her mortgage or provide for her family as a single mom of 4 children, 2 that currently live with her.  Eileen is in need of help, something she would never ask for as she has too much pride, and lives her life each day with the goal of helping others.  I have set up this fundraiser on her behalf and with her reluctant consent and ask that you please consider donating, to help her get back on her feet during this difficult time. 

Please read her story below and thank you in advance for any donation however small! 

I’ve always been one to push through adversity, having been through a terrible divorce while supporting 4 children one of which has severe Autism, I pursued my passion and after 4 long years earned my Doctorate in Chinese Medicine. 

Shortly after opening my practice, I faced my first hurdle, the 2008 financial collapse.  I had faith and a passion to help heal those in need and my practice began to thrive.  Unfortunately, in 2015 new insurance rules were ushered in and my business was forced to take a step back.  One of my services, acupuncture was no longer covered by insurance.  I support a working class community and care dearly for my patients, I found myself offering services at no cost because of my desire to help.

I was struggling and trying to avoid bankruptcy but, I knew I had the love and support of my children, especially Kasey.  Then Covid hit, my patients were afraid of the virus, and our Governor deemed acupuncture as nonessential.  Just recently I’ve reopened my practice and maintain a strict infection prevention protocol but so few patients have returned, I can count the number on one hand that I’ve seen since opening. 

I have been unable to sleep as the pandemic unemployment benefit will run out this week and I have no idea how I will survive and provide for my family.  The PPP business loan I received unfortunately only covered a ¼ of my monthly expenses.  I have not received child support in 10 years. My two youngest children still reside at home and my daughter suffers from severe autism, which is why I have a home office, as working outside my home would be very difficult. I’ve tried to find additional ways to supplement my income while caring for Kasey and continue to do the job of healing my fellow human beings, as I feel God intended me to do.

I do feel blessed, I’ve been able to pursue a career that I love, I have 5 amazing children including my 16 year old dog/boyfriend, Nicky.  My daughter Kasey’s tragic descent into Autism after leading a normal childhood inspired me to devote my life towards healing.  Knowing that I have such an amazing circle of friends brings me to tears.  I’ve always been one to help others and I’m not used to being on the receiving end. I feel so grateful to have Jennifer’s support and the thought of her helping me is humbling and saying ‘Thank You’ feels inadequate. 

I may not have the words to express my appreciation, but my heart is so full xoxo.