Lend Ashley a Hand

About Me

Hello, I'm Ashley Hunter, and I'm honored to share a bit of my journey with you. Life has indeed been a whirlwind for me, akin to a gripping soap opera at times. At 34 years old, I proudly serve as an English and Language Arts Teacher in Memphis, Tennessee. My educational journey has been diverse, with achievements including an Associates in Graphic Arts, a Bachelor’s in Professional Studies with focuses on Criminal Justice and Creative Writing, and I'm currently pursuing my Masters in Education and Literacy.

My pursuit of higher education coincided with personal challenges, notably navigating the end of my marriage while completing my bachelor's degree. Witnessing the struggles of my nieces and nephew during the pandemic's virtual schooling era, coupled with the exodus of educators from the field, inspired me to return to school for my Masters, with the aim of becoming an English teacher—a path aligned with my passion for literature and writing, with dreams of publishing my own books someday.

However, amidst my academic pursuits, life threw unexpected health challenges my way. In 2019, my health began to decline, with a significant setback occurring in 2021 following complications from receiving the COVID-19 vaccine, which inadvertently lowered my seizure threshold to dangerous levels. Subsequent seizures, including a severe grand mal seizure in August that resulted in a trimalleolar fracture and a concussion, left me with enduring physical limitations, necessitating surgery and the aid of a cane to walk.

Compounding these challenges, I found myself without health insurance, facing mounting medical bills and legal action from some providers. Despite the resilience I've shown, my health took another turn in February 2023, leading to a diagnosis of Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS), a condition characterized by a range of debilitating symptoms, rendering it nearly impossible for me to continue teaching effectively. Multiple hospital visits and medical leave culminated in the realization that returning to my previous role was unfeasible, as advised by several medical professionals.

This journey has been one of resilience, but it has also underscored the importance of community support. Your contributions to this fundraiser will directly assist with covering essential living expenses, medical bills, and legal fees, providing me with the opportunity to focus on my health and well-being as I navigate this challenging chapter. Your generosity offers not just financial aid, but a lifeline of hope and solidarity, for which I am profoundly grateful.

Thank you for considering supporting me on this journey. Your kindness and compassion make all the difference.

Why I’m Raising Money

I find myself in a challenging situation due to health-related setbacks that have rendered me unable to work. As a dedicated teacher, I have always strived to provide the best for my students, often having to cover expenses out of pocket. This includes purchasing essential office materials, school books, and laptops for students, all while managing a classroom of over 200 students. Unfortunately, these expenses have led me to accrue debts that I am struggling to repay.

Despite my efforts to secure alternative sources of income, such as offering tutoring services, art commissions, and writing/editing services, financial constraints persist. The ongoing battle with my insurance company and medical providers has left me unable to access the insurance coverage I am owed, further exacerbating my financial difficulties.

In addition to mounting bills, I am also contending with outstanding debts and legal expenses related to medical issues. Unable to complete the final semester of my Masters due to health challenges, I am now faced with loan repayments without the means to do so.

I find myself in a precarious financial situation, struggling to keep my head above water. Your support would provide much-needed relief, allowing me to address urgent financial obligations and work towards regaining stability. Every contribution, no matter the size, would make a significant difference in helping me navigate through these challenging times.

I am deeply grateful for any assistance you can provide as I strive to overcome these obstacles and rebuild my life. Your generosity and compassion mean the world to me, and I am immensely thankful for your support during this difficult period.

What Will the Funds Be Used For?

I am profoundly grateful for your willingness to help and even read my message thus far. Your generosity holds the power to enact real change in my life and I am humbled by your support. I want to share with you the tangible impact your contributions will have. The funds raised will be allocated towards several critical areas, each essential for improving quality of life and securing a better future:

Additionally, should there be any surplus funds, they will be invested back into my small business. By reinvesting in my business, I aim to foster growth and sustainability, creative opportunities for economic empowerment and self-sufficiency.

Your support transcends financial assistance; it symbolizes hope, compassion, and solidarity. You are empowering individuals to overcome adversity and build a better tomorrow. Thank you for your unwavering commitment to making a difference in the lives of others.

How Much I Appreciate you

I want to take a moment to express my heartfelt gratitude to each and every one of you. Your support, whether through donations, spreading awareness, or simply offering words of encouragement, means the world to me. In a world where challenges seem to multiply by the day, your faith in me is a beacon of hope.

Your generosity isn’t just about financial assistance; it’s a testament to the power of community and compassion. Your willingness to stand with me, to invest in me, speaks volumes about your character and commitment to making a difference.

Ever dollar contribution, every share, every kind word spoken on my behalf, serves as a reminded that we’re not alone on this journey.