by Jeanette R. Harrison, MPH
A few weeks ago, I found myself in one of the most stressful situations a person can face: eviction mediation. My rent was over $8,000, and I only had five weeks to figure out how to pay it.
I was earning about $600 a week through a temporary job at a local accounting firm—barely enough to cover basic expenses, let alone thousands in back rent. But through a combination of resources, determination, and generosity, I pulled through. A local eviction prevention program stepped in to help. I used my entire income tax refund. I stretched every dollar and ended up living on $100–$200 a week.
Some incredible individuals donated during that time, and I want you to know that your help went directly to essentials: rideshares, the bus, groceries, my phone bill, utilities like gas and electric, and other bills. I am so grateful for your kindness and generosity. It still wasn’t easy—I was hanging on by a thread—but I stayed housed, and that matters.
 |
What keeps me going? Just the blind belief that maybe I will wake up today and something amazing will happen. |
To be clear, this temp job wasn’t some golden opportunity. I was in a very entry-level role, making $20 an hour. I’ve been in healthcare and education for more than 25 years, so it wasn’t exactly a match for my experience. But I approached it with the same integrity and work ethic I bring to everything I do. It paid the bills—until I got sick.
About two months in, I contracted viral pneumonia. I’m pretty sure it happened in an elevator, when someone coughed directly in front of me. I literally saw their sputum flying through the air like a horror movie in slow motion. That one moment cost me my job, my income, and three weeks of my life. I was extremely sick, and as a temp, I had no sick time, no vacation, no protections. Temp agencies don’t wait around—you’re either in the seat or you’re out.
Small business owners face the same challenge. If we can’t work, we don’t get paid. No paid leave, no benefits, just a hard stop.
On top of that, I’ve been pulled in several different directions just to survive. I work a day job to support my business. I also work on the business itself—coaching, writing, creating. I do a side hustle as an influencer through Amazon. I microtask just to keep food in the fridge and the lights on. Life is very busy and chaotic when you have no one nearby helping you with anything. It’s hard to move forward when every day is focused on simply surviving.
I know some people wonder why it seems like I "just can’t get it together.” And I need you to understand: people who go through extreme adversity—like starting over from nothing, escaping abuse, being adopted out of foster homes, surviving homelessness in my 20s, paying your way through life, living in multiple cities and states, enduring years of instability—don’t bounce back overnight. Especially without a strong support system.
Five years ago, I began rebuilding my life from scratch. I didn’t have a safety net or savings. Every step forward has taken grit, resourcefulness, and hope. The truth is, most people don't survive the kind of hardships I have been through. It's too overwhelming. I am the exception rather than the rule. Moreover, the people who survive the kind of hardship I’ve been through often face prolonged financial challenges—not because they’re lazy or irresponsible, but because they are still catching up from the weight of the past.
Still, I remain hopeful. I continue to build my business, How Healthcare Works. I keep writing, creating, supporting others, and dreaming of more for myself and my community.
What’s next?
Right now, I’m focusing on two things: transportation and rent. My goal is to get an electric bike and a cart so I can attend vendor fairs and markets in my community. That will help me build visibility for my business, earn income, and stay connected to others. I’ll also use it for errands and to continue my wellness journey—something I share openly to inspire others.
If you’ve ever wondered how to help, here’s what your support can do:
-
$25 covers a week of phone service so I can stay connected for jobs, resources, and opportunities.
-
$50 helps with groceries or bus passes to appointments, or errands.
-
$100 goes toward a utility bill or a week's worth of rideshares.
-
$200 helps with rent or moves me closer to purchasing the bike and cart I need.
-
$500 or more creates breathing room and momentum—supporting both my basic needs and my ability to move forward sustainably.
Every dollar makes a difference. Every act of kindness brings me one step closer to stability and freedom and, ultimately, the success I deserve.
Thank you for believing in me and walking this journey with me.
With love and gratitude,
Jeanette Harrison
Comments
Post a Comment