I never imagined I’d be in a position where I’d need to write my own GoFundMe story. As someone who has always fought for my community, I’m now humbly turning to that same community for help as I try to rebuild not just my home, but our lives.
I’m a single mom of a recently diagnosed special needs child, and this past year has already been the hardest of my life. For those who know me, you know I’m a hustler—I’ve always worked multiple jobs to provide for my family. But in the last six months, I haven’t been able to work full-time, which has left my finances beyond strained. What little I had left was spent on preparing for this storm.
When I tried to evacuate from Milton, my car—already in the shop for a quick diagnostic —ended up needing to stay there for the week, and will cost over 4 thousand dollars if my extended warranty does not cover it, leaving my family with no way to escape Tampa. My Grandmothers car was flooded completely and she lost all the items she packed for the storm. As the Hurricane Milton rolled in, I watched helplessly as all the precautions I had taken—boarding up windows, laying down sandbags—were washed away as water poured into my apartment from every wall flooding almost everything my family owned.
I sat there with my disabled grandmother, two teenage brothers, and my special-needs son, watching everything I’ve worked so hard for wash away. We’ve lost almost everything.
So, I’m reaching out now, as humbly as I can, asking for any help—whether through donations, prayers, or sharing this story. Your generosity will help us rebuild not just a home, but the foundation of our lives as we navigate this devastating time.
May God bless you tenfold for taking the time to read our story, and for any support you can offer. Any extra donations will be used to help other families affected by Milton .
