Help Jahtiek Long Heal and Thrive Again

Hi, my name is Jahtiek Long. For the past few years, I have been a dedicated freelance artist and community advocate on Staten Island. My passion lies in producing various events, including art showcases and music shows, as well as capturing precious moments as a photographer for weddings and community gatherings.

On December 27th, 2023, my life changed dramatically when my partner and I were hit by a car. Since that day, we have been on a challenging journey of recovery. The accident left me with three tears in my body—one in my ankle, one in my knee, and one in my shoulder—as well as a herniated disc in my lower back and several herniated discs in my neck. I’ve undergone two surgeries and received two epidurals, but I am still in the process of healing.

My work requires me to be on my feet for extended periods, which is currently very difficult due to my injuries. Living in my body has become incredibly uncomfortable, and I am facing physical limitations that prevent me from performing my job duties fully, making this an incredibly difficult time physically, emotionally, mentally, and financially.

Creating this fundraiser was not easy for me. It took a lot for me to share our story, be vulnerable, and ask for support. When this year started, I was on the tail end of a grant that helped me survive, and I had the opportunity to work some freelance remote gigs from March to July. Unfortunately, these gigs were short-lived, and my options are now severely limited due to my injuries.

This recovery period has been a lot on us financially. During this time, my partner has been extremely supportive. There is unfair pressure on her to largely sustain the both of us, on a modest salary as she works for a non-profit organization. This is especially why I need help now. Our situation is precarious at best and I am determined to reintroduce stability back into our lives.

I have always been deeply committed to my community in Staten Island. As a photographer, musician, and community advocate, I have poured my heart into organizing and participating in numerous events that bring people together and celebrate our local culture. I’ve been privileged to capture the beautiful moments of weddings, community gatherings, art exhibitions, and music events through my lens, telling the stories of the people and places I love.

Being part of Staten Island's vibrant community has been a source of joy and inspiration for me. Whether it's curating a gallery show, performing music, or simply connecting with others, my goal has always been to uplift and bring people together. My work has been recognized for its artistic quality and social relevance, capturing the unique spirit of Staten Island and its residents.

The purpose of this fundraiser is to help my partner and I survive during this period so I can focus on my recovery and we can keep a roof over our heads. My partner has employment, but we need both of our incomes to sustain ourselves. The funds raised will go towards living expenses—rent and utilities, groceries, and daily necessities—since it will be a while before I can fully work as a freelancer and working artist full-time. Your support will provide much-needed stability and peace of mind as I heal.

My goal is to raise at least $5,000. In all honesty, I'd like to set a higher goal, but I think that would be harder to raise. However, whether I meet this goal, come below it, or exceed it, I am extremely grateful for the support regardless. It will be a while before I can fully work as a freelancer and artist full-time. Your support will provide much-needed stability and peace of mind as I heal.

I am reaching out to my community for support because it will be some time before I can return to work full-time. Every donation, no matter how small, makes a significant difference and brings me one step closer to recovery. Your kindness and generosity mean the world to me, and I am deeply grateful for any help you can provide during this difficult time.

Thank you for your support and for being a part of my journey to recovery.

Jahtiek Long

P.S.

If you don't know me and stumbled upon my fundraiser, here's a video to get to know me, where I speak about my art, my music, and why I love uplifting Staten Island in my work.