Hello, my name is Shirin. I came to the United States from Iran many years ago, hoping for a better and safer life. Growing up, I had to deal with sexual abuse quietly for years. I never realized how deeply it would affect me later in life.

After coming here, I married but ended up in an unhealthy marriage that forced me to get a divorce. Since then, I have raised my son alone, working multiple jobs to support us. I never remarried because I was so afraid my son might end up being abused like I was. All I ever wanted was to keep him safe.

I tried to do everything right – working hard, staying strong, and even going back to school to build a better future for us. But during COVID, my son developed a drinking problem. That was my breaking point. Watching him struggle broke my heart. I felt so helpless. Even when I was diagnosed with breast cancer, I kept working and pushing through. But seeing my son suffer while I felt powerless took away all my strength.

My mental health gradually got worse until I developed severe anxiety and panic attacks. I recently had to quit my job for my health. Because I quit on my own, I don’t qualify for unemployment. Right now, I am at my lowest point. I struggle financially so much. Due to my severe mental health issues, I can barely function, and that scares me. I need help to pay my rent and survive until I can heal and start working again. I have so many bills right now that I just can’t keep up.

Asking for help like this is the hardest thing I’ve ever done. If you can donate, even a small amount will help me keep going. If you can’t donate, please share my story with others. Your kindness and prayers mean everything to me right now.

Thank you from the bottom of my heart!

kind regards,

Shirin