In Dire Need of Help

My name is Mary and I am in desperate need of help to save my home. I had the dream life from birth to 9 years old, then everything fell apart.  I was in a car accident where my mom was killed and we almost lost my youngest brother.  Two years later my father died so I found myself an orphan at the age of 12.  I lived in a variety of homes, some nice and some not so nice but made it through and a week after my 17th birthday I got my first apartment.  Of course I didn't have anything but a sheet set, a comforter and some pillows.  But I was extremely happy. 

Just after I moved in I met a neighbor who ended up being my husband.  After we married we planned (to the day) for our first child.  Soon after I got pregnant he started drinking and became very abusive.  I tried to stay as long as I could but after he pulled a gun on me I knew that I had to get out of there.  So I packed up my few things and my son and I started all over with no support from my ex.  I eventually moved to be close to my brothers even though the town was quite a bit more expensive than the one we lived in. 

Everything went fine for the next 17 years, we struggled along but made bills every month.  When my son turned 18 he moved out for a while and then we realized that if we combined our incomes we might be able to buy a house.  So for the next 5 years or so we roomed together (yes this was a crazy thing) but we did save enough to put a down payment on a really dumpy duplex.  It was a short sale and took 9 months.  When we got the news that the house was ours, I thought that my dreams were coming true.  We have spent the next 6 months cleaning, repairing and turning our dump into livable homes for us. 

Unfortunately 3 weeks after I got the keys, my job of 16 years laid me off with slow sales.  So I didnt panic, I had unemployment and surely I could get another job soon.  Well here I am, Unemployment is almost gone, savings account drained and credit cards maxed out.  I also have a 4,500 medical bill from an emergency visit and stay with a case of diverticulitius. I have no equity in the house and have found a roommate to help cover costs, I can't even leave because my payment is less than rent would be.  If I walk away I also take away my sons home.

This morning when I got into my car the check engine light came on.  The good news is they say bad news comes in 3's and I think I have had all three. So what is a 53 year old to do?  Beg for help from strangers.  I am hoping to get enough money to cover a few months bills and house payments.  I have applied for about 100 jobs and something has got to pan out soon.  Please if you can find a soft spot anywhere in your heart, any donation would be appreciated.  I have never had to ask for help before and it is not an easy thing.  Better yet, if you are looking for a bookkeeper or assistant (virtually) I would appreciate that more than a donation. Thanks so much for reading my sob story. Sincerely, Mary   X