From Susan:

Most of you know that my husband Joe passed away unexpectedly in January 2024. Since that time Lily and I have been living with my daughter, Ariana, and her boyfriend Joe. 

I am retired. My monthly expenses aren’t unreasonable, however, once my insurance benefit runs out I won’t be able to cover my bills, with just my Social Security. 

At the end of 2024, I had unexpected expenses (car repair, new tires and a vet visit for Lily.) I had to pay out of my savings, and now those funds are dwindling. 

Winter has been hard, as everyone in our household was sick. It’s been bitter cold and windy, with frequent snow storms. This year it feels more Isolating than usual.

When Joe passed away, my income was reduced by 70%. We had 3 sources of income. My Social Security alone is not enough for us to live on.

I am uncomfortable sharing this, because I’m very private about my personal finances, however. In full disclosure, I receive $1315/month in Social Security income.

I retired and had to apply early for Social Security in 2018, so I could go take care of my Mom in New Jersey.

Joe had a small 401K, a life insurance benefit, (and no pension.)

I’ve used both to supplement my SS income and now the insurance money will soon run out.

This prompted me to get over my fear of judgment and shaming, and take action by doing this fundraiser. Another event that led me to this was an expensive car repair, plus new tires, approximately $1900, in the Fall of 2024. Luckily, the car is in great condition now.

I want to provide for myself and Lily, so I’ll need to find a part time or remote job. I don’t want to depend on Ariana and her boyfriend Joe to support me, financially. They’ve been beyond generous already. I want a comfortable, quiet life with my my dog.

It’s hard for me to ask for help … I thought I would never have to do another fundraiser. I’ve always found it hard to be that vulnerable, because I expect to be judged or shamed, regarding my financial situation.

I’ve had many generous friends donate to my past fundraisers. I’m eternally grateful for the help I received. Your generosity will never be forgotten. Any and all donations will be very appreciated. You can help in several ways. Donate to the fundraiser, to me directly or to Lily’s vet, dog groomer or dog walker, for their services.

I can provide the names and contact info of any of those service providers, if you prefer to donate to them directly to help Lily.

This fundraiser will enable us to get through from now to the end Of May.

Walmart and Amazon gift cards are also welcome if you prefer not to donate directly to fundraiser.

I’ve also updated our Amazon list.

Our list consists of some needed housewares and home items. We donated or threw out a lot of our old stuff.

For Lily - her Fortiflora Probiotic, and a new big girl food and water set up.

I need to finish getting rid of items we brought from the old place (that belonged to my parents, grandmother and Joe). This has been, and still is a very difficult and emotional process.

That will allow me to reconfigure my room, so Lily can safely spend time there, with me.

A bookshelf and wall unit will help me to accomplish that, by getting things off the floor.

My goal Is to get the room in shape for working remotely.

The following are things I need help with during the next three months, so I can get back on my feet, then start a job search without constant worry and anxiety about finances. This has been a long standing issue that I really want to overcome.

Storage unit 5 x 5, $35 per month. $105 Candia Road self storage, Manchester, NH. This will allow me to keep things that can’t be stored here at the townhouse.

$150 toward Lily's GI panel. Ariana and Joe are covering the other half. Ark Animal Home Care, Chester, NH. This test is necessary, because Lily has had frequent diarrhea.

Grooming Lily $100, Sarah’s Paw Spa Derry, NH.

She is way overdue. Last visit was in October.

3 months rent $1200. Rent $350, plus $50 charge monthly for Lily. This will help stabilize my finances.

(Dog walker $25 x 12 = $300) I’ve hired someone to help me because I can’t do long walks, due to a knee issue. She walks Lily once a week on Tuesday’s for half an hour.

Total $1855

$645 left over can be put toward my Auto Coverage yearly premium, due in May, approximately $700 on renewal. I don’t have the exact amount yet.

So if you are able to help us in any way, Lily and I will be most appreciative. We are grateful for your friendship and caring hearts. Thank you for reading this!!!