These past 8 months have been incredible and I couldn’t be more thankful for the family and friends back home who have supported me. God has blessed me tremendously since applying for the race and being on the field.
When I was applying for the race I knew that it was going to be a difficult task to raise $17,617, but I told God if this was really his plan then he would provide the money. I hated fundraising. I did not like asking people for money because honestly, it was really awkward asking people to support me. I was fully funded by month four of the race and had even stashed some away into savings to help support me for others needs for the remainder of my race. My thought was if I made a financial plan, and my parents helped me, I would be great.
I’m now coming up on month 9 of the race and my bank account is slowly draining. I am constantly checking to make sure I have enough money in my account. This is because there are things on the race that aren’t covered by the initial $17,617.
In Vietnam, I unfortunately became very ill and was in and out of the hospital. I was being treated for a stomach ulcer that was caused by stress. Little did I know that wasn’t actually the cause of the ulcer. The month passed and I was not getting any better. We traveled to Ethiopia and I again was in and out of the hospital with no clear answers. This process was very tough mentally, physically and financially. We arrived in Rwanda and after being sick for three months I was determined to get answers. I spent two days in the hospital with a diagnoses of a bacterial infection in my stomach which was causing an ulcer. These three months being sick and in the hospital took a huge toll on my bank account as I spent over $700 in medical expenses.
The money I initially raised covers my travel, food and lodging expenses. Our budget for food is usually $1-$5 a day and it’s quite difficult to find three meals for just $5. If we want to stay in budget, we have to eat eat street food which isn’t the nicest to our bodies. That money also does not include personal expenses such as shampoo, conditioner, or toothpaste. I will also be needing to buy my flight back HOME (three more months!) 🙂
I’m going to be honest with you. Sometimes I just want a nice cup of coffee, or the chance to rent a movie or buy a book for our long bus rides. With the limited amount of “home” around me, it’s nice to splurge on small comforts, like a nice meal.
I’m writing this blog because I am once again asking for financial support. I have three months left, and because of my medical expenses I have nearly tapped out on my savings. Any amount is so greatly appreciated!! This is a humbling post for me to write, but I believe that just as God provided for me to raise the first $17,617, He will again provide for me in this struggle. I thank you all for following along on this adventure and for supporting me so much in encouragement and love! I couldn’t do any of this without any of you and I’m so grateful.
If you feel led to support my personal finances you can do so at:
Venmo: @Heather-Blumenfeld
PayPal: Heather Blumenfeld (email associated: [email protected])
or email me at: [email protected]
and we can work out some details!
I love you all so much!! PEACE
