I never thought that at the age of 59 I would be asking strangers for help. All my life I have tried to stand on my own two feet, work and help others whenever I could. Today, however, I find myself in a situation where I am in danger of losing the last place I can call home.

I live alone in a small old house in Poprad with my late mother’s little dog. I work part-time as a cleaner in a healthcare facility. It’s not a job that matches my qualifications – I have two university degrees and further qualifications – but at my age it’s very difficult to find better employment.

My life started to get complicated years ago when I got into financial trouble because I trusted my ex-partner. I took on business debts to save my family and the business, but the situation gradually got worse. Following the economic crisis and unpaid bills, I fell into a spiral of debt and eventually we even lost my mum’s flat.

What followed was a very difficult period for me – moving from one rented flat to another, living in uncertainty and trying to start over. Despite everything, I never gave up working and tried to stand on my own two feet.

My mum was my greatest support. When she became seriously ill, I looked after her until her death in 2021. Her passing affected me deeply, and following this loss, my own health also deteriorated.

Some time ago, I managed to find a place to live in an old cottage. When I moved in, it was in a very neglected state. Gradually, I cleaned, repaired and improved it with my own hands. I painted, fixed small things, tidied up the garden and tried to make it a home again.

After many years of uncertainty, I have finally found peace here. My granddaughters also love to visit me in the garden; they adore spending time in nature.

Now, however, I am in danger of losing this little house. The house has several owners, and one of them is pushing for it to be sold. The owner who rents the house to me is very accommodating and would like to find a solution so that I can stay here. He suggested the possibility of buying out his sister’s share of the property to stabilise the situation.

Unfortunately, following my personal bankruptcy and with my current income, I cannot take out a loan. Finding alternative accommodation, however, is almost impossible for me – rents in Poprad are very high and require large deposits, which I am unable to save up.

That is why I have decided to try this fundraising campaign.

The target amount of €40,000 would help cover the payment of my co-ownership share and ensure I can stay in the house for a few more years – until I am eligible for a council flat or a pension.

I’m not asking for luxury. I’m just asking for the chance to stay in a place that I’ve turned into a home with my own two hands.

If you decide to help, I will be truly grateful.