Hello, friends.
If you're reading this, I appreciate you viewing my fundraiser.
First, I'll tell you a little about me and then I'll tell you what I'm asking for.
My name is Brittany. I'm 33 years old and live in Northern Michigan. I love it here, especially because there is water everywhere - lakes, rivers, and beautiful springs. I have two young children. My boys are 3 and 8 years old and they are the lights of my life. I never felt I had much of a purpose or direction until I became a mom. In fact, it was my dream for years until I learned in my young adult years that there were problems with my reproductive system and I may never carry children to term at all. However the univese granted me not just one but two miracles. They are very bright, hilarious, and incredibly kind.
In February of 2024, my whole world (on consequently theirs) was turned upside down when I was physically and sexually assaulted by an acquaintance. Sentencing for my case did not occur until March of this year and thankfully he was put away for 12 years. The whole process was painful and terrifying and I lost a lot of pieces of myself. Hell, I almost lost myself entirely, speaking honestly. So many people in my life recommended finding a hobby to help me when life was heavy. I tried everything. Writing but the trauma quite literally caused two years of writers block. Baking but after awhile I lost a majority of both my mental and physical energy and what started as a vegan cupcake side hustle began feeling like a chore.
Eventually, I landed on photography. My camera was with me all the time. It brought me joy to be able to take pictures of beautiful moments and cool things. In the spring my camera was in my car, I was in the midst of a stalking situation, and that camera was stolen, which not only caused me grief because it was one of few material photos of me but also resulted in photos of me on a memory card being leaked on the internet. (Photos taken by a professional during a shoot that was consented to, however the post of my photos online to strangers was never intended.)
I had a partner at the time who not only single handedly carried me through the court process for my sexual assault case, but allowed me to borrow a camera that was even nicer that was stolen. We took day trips and I learned how to use it fairly quickly. Photography was the one hobby I never lost interest in or love for during the two most painful years of my life. It was the hobby that I felt brought me back to myself. Something I could do and feel proud of and a reminder of how beautiful the world may be.
However, that relationship dissolved recently. As a single mom, I can't justify such a purpose when I have two little humans. However, my heart is heavy and has been as I have not been able to partake in this hobby for awhile.
This is why I'm throwing a request into the univese. I am humbly asking for assistance with the funds to purchase a camera, even if it's used, so I can get back to doing what I love. It's the singular fulfilling activity I participated in outside of being a mother that was just for me.
Thank you for your time and consideration. Thank you in advance if you choose to donate.
Another secure option for donations is venmo. My username is @Brittany-Blethen
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