Hello, and thank you so much for taking a moment to read my story.

I am a 60-year-old Canadian woman living with Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) and Secondary Raynaud’s Syndrome, two conditions that make winter extremely difficult for me — both physically and emotionally.

Raynaud’s Syndrome causes my hands and feet to react painfully to the cold, with numbness, colour changes, and circulation issues. Even brief exposure to winter weather can trigger painful episodes that make everyday tasks challenging.

At the same time, the long, dark winter months greatly intensify my SAD symptoms, affecting my mood, energy levels, sleep, and overall ability to function consistently. It becomes very hard to stay motivated, clear-minded, and emotionally stable when the days feel so short and cold.

Over the years, I’ve learned that spending even a short period in a warm, sunny climate brings tremendous relief. The warmth eases my Raynaud’s symptoms, and the additional sunlight helps stabilize my mood and energy. When I am somewhere warm, I feel more like myself — calmer, brighter, more grounded, and able to function in a steady and healthy way.

I currently receive early CPP, but unfortunately it isn’t enough to afford modest, temporary winter accommodation elsewhere. I am also actively searching for remote bookkeeping work, which I hope will help support me long-term. While I continue this search, I’m hoping to raise enough to safely stay in a warm, affordable location for part of the winter so I can manage my health in a sustainable way.

Any contribution — no matter the size — directly helps me cope with two chronic conditions during the harshest months of the year.
Your support would give me the chance to spend time in a climate where I can feel healthier, more stable, and free from the pain and emotional strain that winter brings.

Thank you for any kindness, consideration, or support you are able to offer. Even quietly sharing this campaign privately makes a meaningful difference in my life.

With gratitude,
— A Canadian woman seeking warmth for wellness