Hi, I’m Fenn (they/them). I’m a full-time working single parent and a trans non-binary person navigating some pretty intense health challenges. Living with Crohn’s disease, chronic gynecological pain, and a hiatal hernia that’s causing internal bleeding has made daily life difficult. After exhausting every other option, I’m now preparing for surgery (actually, two surgeries in one) that are both medically necessary and gender-affirming. This care is complex. It requires coordination between gastrointestinal and gynecological specialists and careful pre-op planning. Unfortunately, the only providers who can perform both procedures safely and comprehensively are out-of-network for my insurance. That means even though this care is essential, I’m shouldering the financial burden on my own. The first surgery is a hysterectomy, which is critical for both my gender affirmation and my long-term health. At the same time, I’ll undergo hiatal hernia repair to stop ongoing GI bleeding and address symptoms that impact my ability to eat, sleep, and function. Recovery will take time, at least 6 weeks, during which I’ll be mostly out of work with only partial disability support; due to my on-going chronic illness I have limited PTO/Sick time to utilize. As a single parent, that’s a scary stretch to face alone. I’ve created this page because I need help — with meals, grocery runs, little care tasks — the kinds of things that will make recovery survivable for me and my kid. If you’re able to drop off food, send a gift card, or offer any other tangible support, it would truly make a difference. I’ve done everything I can to manage my health and care for my child without asking. But this is bigger than what I can carry by myself. Thank you for being part of my community and helping catch me in this vulnerable moment. Every small act of support means more than you know. With gratitude, Fenn
Visiting & Drop-Off Info: Gunther, our doggo, is a sweet boy but very reactive. This means it takes some planning to be able to come into the house if Gunther doesn’t know you well. Please don’t stop by without texting first. 💗 There will be a cooler set up on the back porch for food drop-offs. Social battery will be running low, so we may not be up for company — but we deeply appreciate you. Please shoot a quick text/message when you drop something off, so we can bring it in and enjoy your yummy meal safely and gratefully. Food Notes: Fenn will be on a liquid-only diet for 2 weeks post-op, so they won’t be able to eat solid food right away. Accessible food for Ollie is really helpful during this time. If you're making a meal, please consider bringing something freezable — if Ollie doesn’t eat it right away, it’ll be easy for Fenn to enjoy later once they’re eating solids again. Things Helpful for Fenn: • Packaged frozen smoothie packs • Coconut water • Bone broth • Pureed soups • Jello Food Ideas for Ollie Meals & Snacks Ollie Likes: • Burgers • Most cooked vegetables • Mushrooms • Asian food • Any meat is okay • Frozen microwaveable meals (like Amy’s entrees) • Ramen in a cup • Chicken nuggets (they like the Aldi brand) • Microwaveable breakfast sandwiches • Microwaveable breakfast corndogs (sausage wrapped in pancake) Snacks & Staples: • Pre-cut snack veggies (celery, carrots, cukes) • Only fruit Ollie really likes is watermelon • Aldi’s brand string cheese (with the cows on it) • Kettle-cooked chips • Tuna salad (prepackaged or homemade) & crackers • Crackers Sandwich stuff: • Turkey and ham lunch meat • Cheese • Heidelberg sourdough bread Drinks Ollie Likes: • Flavored seltzers • Aldi brand sodas Juice • Restaurants Ollie Likes: • Wendy’s • Any sushi place • Burger places • Foods Ollie Does Not Eat: • Tomato • Tomato sauce • Most fruits • Tacos