
Support Chef Chris: A Journey of Healing and Creativity
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Hi, my name is Chris but many of you know me as Chef Chris, and I’ve spent my life finding creative ways to express my passions. As a former professional chef, I thrived on problem-solving, connecting with others through food, and sharing the joy it brought. But life took an unexpected turn in 2016 when my lifelong battle with epilepsy forced me to leave the restaurant industry,a world that had been my home and my purpose for so many years.
After leaving the kitchen, I did everything I could to stay afloat. I worked in catering, took on dishwashing jobs, and poured all my energy into managing the skyrocketing costs of private health insurance. Despite my best efforts, the financial toll of mounting medical debt became overwhelming. I lost my retirement savings, had to file for bankruptcy twice, and found myself struggling to navigate a world that felt increasingly out of reach.
But in the face of these challenges, I discovered a new path—a new passion—through live-streaming.
A New Beginning Through Travel and Creativity
In 2022, I started sharing my travels and perspectives on TikTok and YouTube. What began as a creative outlet quickly grew into something much greater: a lifeline. Through live-streaming, I’ve been able to connect with people around the world, share stories, explore new places, and reignite the spark of adventure that had been missing from my life for so long.
As someone who’s spent their career making connections, whether through food or storytelling, I’ve found live-streaming to be my saving grace. It’s helped me rediscover my purpose and passion while building a community that inspires me daily.
Why I Need Your Help
While I’ve managed to keep my travel costs low, often staying in budget hotels, sleeping in airports, and even subway stations—certain fixed expenses remain a significant barrier. My epilepsy medication, international health insurance, and data charges for staying connected to my audience are critical, non-negotiable costs that I struggle to cover.
Without adequate health insurance, traveling as a US-based content creator becomes risky, especially when managing a medical condition like epilepsy. It’s heartbreaking to have finally found a career and a passion that feels right, only to face financial obstacles that threaten to hold me back.
That’s why I’m reaching out to you. Your support will enable me to:
1. Cover the cost of international health insurance so I can safely travel and continue creating content.
2. Afford my epilepsy medication to maintain my health and well-being while exploring the world.
3. Manage international data charges to stay connected with my community as I live-stream my adventures.
4. Food and lodging so I can travel sustainably and focus on growing my platform.
What Your Support Means
Your generosity won’t just help me cover these essential costs; it will allow me to continue building this new chapter of my life. Live-streaming has given me purpose and a way to connect with others, and it’s my dream to keep sharing my journey, inspiring others to embrace life’s adventures, and collaborating with creators across the globe.
Every dollar makes a difference, whether it’s $5, $50, or simply sharing this campaign with others. Your support will help me overcome the financial hurdles standing in my way and allow me to continue doing what I love while staying safe and healthy.
Thank you for for all your continued support.
With gratitude,
Chef Chris
Organizer

Chris Mortenson
Organizer
New York, NY