Help devin after Lyme diagnosis and subsequent car accident

Hello. my name is devin. I am a Two-Spirit New Orleans native living with chronic illness. This year has been one of the most (if not the most) challenging years of my life, and it’s become more and more difficult for me to maintain even the most basic functions to survive.

In addition to my severe Lupus, which has been exacerbated by symptoms of Long-Covid, this month I was diagnosed with Lyme Disease. I have been incredibly sick for many months, and while a diagnosis opens the door for treatment options, it’s also terrifying and disheartening. My fatigue has grown to a debilitating degree, making work in the service industry almost impossible.

If you know me, you know that I am a workaholic, and not being able to do the things I both love and which allow me to make the money to survive has taken an extreme toll on my mental health. I want nothing more than to be well enough to work more consistently, but I know right now it is critical that I focus on my physical and mental health in order to once again be able to thrive.

Three weeks ago I suffered another extreme setback when my car was totaled in a hit-and-run while I was driving to my one day a week job. My insurance won’t cover anything, and without a functional vehicle I am unable to guarantee that I will be able to get to work or to my myriad of appointments. This is the most immediate challenge, as my physical health prevents me from biking any significant distance at this point in time.

Reaching out for support is incredibly difficult for me, but I am at a loss for how to move forward through all of this. I have fallen more behind than ever, and so now I’m asking my community for a little help. Any amount is helpful, and once I’m back on my feet, I will be able to continue to offer care and support to the communities I hold so dearly.

An approximate breakdown of the funds I’m trying to raise, for transparency:

$2-3k - Buying a new vehicle

$1,000 - Back rent/house fund/insurance payment

$1,000 - Basic necessities in the coming times, including groceries, supplements, and transportation costs to and from appointments and my job Uptown until I’m able to get a vehicle

Again, any amount is helpful, and I appreciate any and all support folks might be able to offer. We’re living in trying times, and I know so many people are struggling. But we’re the ones who are going to hold each other up, just as we always have been.

Thank you for your support,

devin, xoxo