Hi, my name is Estancia, and I’m reaching out in one of the most difficult times of my life. After nearly a decade of living with end-stage renal disease, I am now at a crossroads—and I need your help to rebuild.
Over the last nine months, everything I’ve worked so hard for has unraveled due to a series of life-altering events. I live with end-stage renal disease and undergo dialysis three times a week. On top of that, I have type 2 diabetes, which led to the amputation of my left leg below the knee, and Charcot foot in my right, which requires me to wear a permanent orthopedic boot. Despite all this, I remained determined to live independently, work, and care for my late mother, who suffered from similar conditions until her passing in 2021.
After a brief period of stability working full-time through the Social Security Ticket to Work program, the Social Security Administration (SSA) determined they had overpaid me $28,000 in benefits, even though I followed their guidelines. They now require me to pay this back—a devastating and unexpected burden that directly impacted my Medicare eligibility and coverage.
Without Medicare, I have been forced to pay out-of-pocket for dialysis, insulin, and other critical medications. I’ve even had to ration my medications, risking my health and life. My efforts to appeal and reinstate Medicare have been slow and unresponsive.
In September 2024, I was let go from my job. Although officially cited for performance issues, I believe my disability played a role in their decision. I had been transparent about how dialysis affects my stamina and health, but it seems my honesty cost me my employment.
As if this weren’t enough, in early 2025, I was evicted from my apartment after discovering that my sister and her partner—whom I relied on for transportation and trusted with rent payments—had been cashing the money orders meant for rent. By the time I found out, court proceedings had happened without my knowledge. I lost not just my home, but many of my belongings.
I am currently staying with my aunt, trying to pick up the pieces of my life. I’m doing everything I can—filing appeals, applying for assistance, and searching for work that accommodates my dialysis schedule—but I can’t do it alone.
I am asking for your support to help raise $55,000 to:
$28,000 – Repay SSA overpayment to regain eligibility for disability assistance
$22,000 – Resolve apartment debt to improve future housing options
$2,500 – Pay Medicare premiums to reinstate coverage
$130 – Enroll in basic insurance through the WA health exchange
$2,370 – Cover essential living expenses (rent, phone, job search, clothing)
Despite everything, I still believe in a brighter future. I am passionate about education and committed to completing a Master’s program in Higher Education Administration. I want to use my experience to support students—especially those who face hardships like I have—and ultimately work at a college or university.
If you’re able to give, I would be forever grateful. I promise to update everyone on my progress and pay your kindness forward when I am back on my feet.
If you can’t donate, please consider sharing my story. Every bit of support counts.
Thank you for reading and for believing in second chances. ❤️
With gratitude,
Estancia
