I never imagined that I would one day have to ask strangers for financial help. It is difficult to share such a personal story, but I have reached a point where I can no longer face these challenges alone. Everything I share here is true, and I sincerely hope you will hear my story with compassion.
I am an unmarried woman who lost both parents at a young age. Through determination and hard work, I built an independent life and a career in advertising and mass communication. I worked as a Creative Director, writer and conceptualizer, as well as a voice artist and radio and television presenter. By 2009, I had achieved financial independence and believed I had a secure future.
Then my life changed dramatically. In 2009, I suffered a blood clot in my brain, which paralysed my right arm and leg and affected my speech. Losing the use of my right hand was especially devastating because creativity and writing were central to my life. I could no longer work as I had before, and I lost my income, professional stability and independence.
After a long recovery, I regained much of my physical ability. I can stand and walk again, although my right leg still troubles me. I remain grateful for this progress and determined to rebuild my life.
However, I have been unable to secure permanent employment since my illness. Today, I depend on occasional freelance opportunities, but the income is irregular and often insufficient. My savings and employer support were exhausted during my illness, and friends helped me as much as they could.
As Sri Lanka faced economic hardship and the effects of the pandemic, my financial situation became even more difficult. I resorted to private loans carrying monthly interest rates of 10% and 12%. Over time, I became trapped in a cycle of borrowing to pay interest on earlier loans.
Today, I struggle to pay approximately LKR 80,000 every month in interest alone, while the outstanding debt remains. I must also find money for rent, food and medical expenses. Without a regular income, meeting these basic needs has become overwhelming.
I am asking for approximately LKR 2,000,000 (around USD 6,000) to help repay my outstanding loans, reduce this crushing financial burden and give me a chance to rebuild my life with dignity. I am not seeking luxury, only relief from debt and the opportunity to work towards a more stable future.
If you can contribute, any amount would mean a great deal. If you cannot donate, sharing my story would also help. Your kindness could bring hope to someone who is still trying, despite everything, to begin again.
Thank you sincerely for reading my story and considering my appeal. May your kindness return to you in many ways.