I'm raising money for utilities so I can keep my lights on.

Why I'm using HandUp for utilities.

I was diagnosed with stage 4 cancer a few months ago, and this affected my ability to work. I used to do odd jobs and this would pay for the small bills I have every month. Since I've been sick I haven't had any income and this caused me to fall behind on my electric bill. Having a warm apartment is critical to my health and I don't know what I would do if my electricity was cut off.

About me.

I'm originally from Chicago and spent most of my childhood there. I moved to the Detroit area when I finished high school to find work in the auto industry. I've lived in the Pontiac area for more than 25 years and have raised my 3 children here. My children are now grown and have children of their own, I enjoy getting to be a grandpa. I've worked in auto plants as well as construction, landscaping, and masonry.

My backstory.

I have a severe spine and neck injury that has impaired my ability to work. The industries that I've worked in for years require physical labor and I'm not able to do that anymore. I haven't been able to work for for about 5 years or so. My injuries and unemployment put me in a bad place and I went into a deep depression and started drinking heavily. My children saw how bad I was doing and demanded that I get sober and start rebuilding my life. 3 years ago I completed rehab programs and got connected with resources that helped me start rebuilding my life.

My goals, moving forward.

I'd like to continue going to physical therapy to get healthy and hopefully my injuries will improve a little. I'd also like to work on getting my driver's license back so that I can become more independent and maybe get a job driving.

Other things I'd like to share about myself.

I love playing the bongos! Sometimes my buddies and I will get together and have jam sessions, playing music makes me happy. I'm also a big sports fan, I like to sit out on the porch during the summer and listen to baseball games on the radio.