Hi friends, family, and kind-hearted supporters, This isn't an easy story to share--and asking for help has never come naturally to me. But I’m learning that sometimes strength means admitting when life becomes too much to carry alone. Recently, I underwent surgery to remove a large polyp that had grown in my right nostril, obstructing my right nostril airflow. What we thought would be a straightforward procedure turned into something much more serious. When inside, the surgeon found that the polyp in my right nostril had grown from my nostril into my throat, obstructing my airway. The surgery ended up involving the removal of the polyp, the correction of my deviated septum, irrigation of all my sinuses, turbinate correction, and sinus widening. The removed polyp was then sent to pathology. The results came back: I’ve been diagnosed with Chronic Invasive Allergic Fungal Rhinosinusitis (AIFRS) — a rare, life-threatening condition that must be carefully managed to prevent it from spreading to my eyes and brain. This is a lifelong illness. Left untreated, it can be fatal. Since the diagnosis, I’ve had to begin an intense treatment plan. Every two weeks, I go to my ENT doctor for manual extraction of new growths in my nasal cavity and suctioning of my sinuses, two incredibly painful treatments. I live with near constant sinus pain, facial pressure, and severe headaches that make daily functioning incredibly difficult — especially as a full-time working single mom. Managing this disease has also meant making heartbreaking and costly changes to my environment. I’ve had to remove all carpet from my home and replace it with hard flooring. I’m installing air purifiers in every room. And one of the most painful sacrifices: I had to rehome my beloved golden retriever, who was not hypoallergenic and whose fur was worsening my condition. Letting him go has been absolutely devastating and the grief is immense. To say I’m exhausted is an understatement. I’m grieving. I’m in pain. And I’m trying to be a present mother to Reese, while navigating a new reality I never could have prepared for. As difficult as it is for me to ask, as a hyper independent person, having more support is needed in this season — help with meals, house cleaning, air filter replacements, child care, errands, a gift card, a moment of rest for myself, or even just a kind note-- it all matters. It all helps. That’s why I created this Give In Kind page — to create a space for those who want and are able to support us during this time. Your support isn't just practical, it's a lifeline. Whether it’s sending a meal, covering a house cleaning, or offering a moment of peace through something like a spa day, your support means more than I could ever express. Even just reading this, even holding us in your heart, is a gift. Thank you for reading, for caring, and for walking alongside Reese and I, from the bottom of my heart. Thank you for showing up — it truly makes all the difference. With love and deep gratitude, Gretchen (& Reese)