Request submitted on 01/20/2026 at 4:39 PM EST

Category: People with Disabilities

This is difficult to write, but I no longer have the luxury of pride.

My name is Marina Khaustova. I’m 35 years old and a mother to two teenage daughters who need me every day. Until recently, I was in school, ranking in the top 5% of my class and working hard to build a future that felt safe and stable for my family.

Then, everything changed. I was hit by a drunk driver and suffered a traumatic brain injury that led to two aneurysms and required an eight-hour craniotomy. I didn’t know if I would survive, but I did. And while I’m deeply grateful to be alive, the aftermath has been unimaginably difficult.

I had to stop school. I had to stop working. Medical recovery is consuming, but the bills never stopped. Right now, I’m doing everything I can just to heal and to keep life from falling apart for my daughters.

I’m humbly asking for your help with basic living expenses ,rent, food, and utilities, while I continue my recovery. Even a small amount would make a meaningful difference as I work to rebuild from something that changed my life completely.

If you’re able to help financially, I would be deeply grateful. If not, simply sharing my story or offering guidance would also mean more than I can express.

Thank you for taking the time to read this, for caring, and for seeing me as a mother simply trying to survive and keep her family safe.

With gratitude,

MARINA KHAUSTOVA