I grew up knowing who I was, but was bullied and found unreceptive environments early in life. I "came out" around age 22 only to be met with hurtful comments. I couch surfed/was homeless for around 6 months before beginning my journey to a healthier life. That work continues one day at a time.

I have served an agency with fidelity through three major crises and this pandemic. A budget difficulty was enough to cause pressure on my position to bring forth an ultimatum: "decide in two days whether to double your workload or find a new job". I chose my well-being and lost the job.