Three Suitcases and a Second Chance: Learning to Start Over

I walked out with nothing but three suitcases and a will to survive.

I’m a 21-year-old student at the University of Toronto, and I’m currently navigating one of the most challenging transitions of my life. After a long period of emotional and psychological instability, I recently decided to leave home. Choosing my safety and future was quiet, calm, and firm.

I left with three large suitcases and the strength to begin again. I’ve been staying in a hotel while working closely with Airbnb’s emergency support team, who have been incredibly generous and responsive. I don’t know where I’d be without their care and coordination during this time.

I’ve also contacted my local police division, and I’m relieved that my concerns are being taken seriously. Each time I advocate for my safety, records are created, and the paper trail grows. It matters to me that a system sees and acknowledges what I’ve been navigating.

It’s taken so much to get here. The calls, the follow-ups, the explaining, the waiting, the hearing no, and still trying again. I’ve had to stay calm when I was exhausted, patient when overwhelmed, and clear when it would’ve been easier to shut down. I’ve had to push for every bit of safety and support.

Right now, I’m doing everything I can to stay steady. I work part-time at Homesense. I’m in the middle of exam season. I’m actively applying for corporate strategy and analyst roles and working with student housing to secure long-term housing in Toronto. I’m moving toward independence and long-term stability, one step at a time.

What I want most is to live a calm, connected life. I want to keep growing and building relationships with the people around me. I want to feel safe in my routine. This journey has been isolating at times, but it’s also shown me how meaningful even small acts of support can be.

What Your Support Will Help Me Cover

• Stable housing – $2,400/month

Long-term accommodation where I can study, rest, and feel secure.

• Utilities – $150/month

Covers heat, electricity, water, and essentials for basic living.

• Wi-Fi – $60/month

Reliable internet access for job applications, coursework, and staying connected.

• Phone plan – $75/month

A secure, independent line for calls, texts, and emergencies.

• Phone replacement (one-time) – $1,000

A new device registered in my name, due to safety and privacy concerns.

• Transportation – $200/month

TTC pass and occasional Ubers, especially when carrying large luggage or relocating.

• Groceries & daily essentials – $350/month

Meals, hygiene items, and everyday supplies.

• Laundry & clothing care – $50/month

Maintaining the small wardrobe I brought with me.

• Academic expenses – $100/month

Textbooks, digital learning tools, and online resources for the upcoming school year.

• Digital tools & life management – $25/month

Support platforms that help me stay organized, emotionally grounded, and on track.

• Emergency buffer – $200/month

For unexpected needs like medication, applications, or last-minute transitions.

Estimated Total for First Month (including phone replacement): $4,610

Ongoing Monthly Budget: $3,610

I’m doing my best to move through this with care. Every part of this has taken strength, patience, and a lot of trust in something bigger than what I can see right now. I’ve let go of a lot to get here. And I’m holding on to believing what I’m building next will be worth it.

I’m sharing this to move forward and stay grounded in my truth. For myself and anyone who’s ever had to trust their instincts quietly, without applause or acknowledgement. If this story resonates with you, I hope it reminds you to keep choosing yourself. And if sharing it helps it reach someone else who needs that reminder, too, I’m grateful.

If you can help, thank you from the bottom of my heart, and please if you can share this post, it would mean the world.

One day, I will be able to end this story with my name.