Support Matthew's Journey to Stability and Health

My name is Matthew Baumgartner. I have struggled with mental illness since I was a child. I grew up in a loving household; however, brain chemistry doesn't care about that. I was hospitalized several times in my youth and was diagnosed with schizoaffective disorder as well as depression as a child. I spent several years juggling medications, trying to get everything under control. I eventually gave up and spent many years unmedicated and traveling the country with no sense of direction or what to do about my mental illness.

After settling down in 2012, I went to school to be a welder. My dream was to have a career and a loving, supportive partner. In 2019, I met an amazing woman and started going to regular therapy to deal with past trauma and mental illness, as well as working regularly with psychiatrists to help with symptoms related to my mental illness. Unfortunately, despite making it through school, it became clear early on that my mental illness makes it nearly impossible to maintain a regular job. And after 5 years, my partner has decided that she no longer wants to be in our relationship. I was under the impression that I was in a safe, secure space to continue to work on improving my mental health. I was mistaken, it would seem.

And so I find myself with no work, no money, a non-functioning car, and now no permanent residence. I need to start over again and think of some way to support myself while I evaluate my options for the future. The proceeds from this campaign will go to a number of things:

1. Fixing my non-functioning car so I have transportation to find a new job.

2. Enough money for first, last, and several months' rent once I find a new apartment.

3. Buying furniture. I have no notable belongings, as most of the things in my partner's house belong to her. I will need to furnish a new apartment or living space.

4. Living expenses such as food, clothing, etc.

Any extra funds will go towards my future financial stability while I explore new career possibilities that will work better while I continue to work on improving my mental health. Any contribution will help, and I am greatly appreciative of you reading this. Thank you.

-Matthew Baumgartner