My name is Diana, and I’m reaching out for help during one of the most challenging times in my life. I am 25 years old and have faced significant health struggles since September 22, 2023, when I applied to a governmental academy, hoping to serve my community and country. Coming from a poor family, this opportunity was a beacon of hope—a chance for a free education and a stable career. Unfortunately, during a training session, I sustained an injury to my left knee due to inadequate equipment (or, to be precise, a complete lack of it).

Despite my efforts to recover, my therapist informed me after 1.5 months that my knee would not improve, then abruptly closed my sick leave and required me to return to college. I struggled to walk and relied on an orthosis for support. Initially, I was exempted from running, but soon I was pressured to participate in physical activities, leading me to question my health. I still felt pain, but I thought, "If the doctor says I'm okay, I must be okay, right?"

By January 2024, the pain had worsened, and I pleaded with my therapist for a sick leave extension. She reluctantly agreed but closed it soon after without investigating my knee further. I trusted the system and wasn't aware of my rights or options for ongoing care, so I had to comply. Meanwhile, my request for a work-related accident inspection was still in progress.

In February 2024, my condition deteriorated further, and I decided to find a new therapist. I was finally able to see a traumatologist, and an MRI revealed that my anterior cruciate ligament was tearing—a result of my initial injury, worsened by lack of rest and rehabilitation. You can find all relevant documents here, with kittens included for privacy purposes: Medical Documentation.

In March 2024, I contracted the Epstein-Barr virus, which led to severe symptoms including a daily high fever (39.6°C for two weeks) and other complications. Despite numerous medical visits, it took weeks to receive adequate care, and I was eventually hospitalized. Only then was I diagnosed and able to begin treatment.

After recovering, I was informed I’d need to wait six months before undergoing knee surgery. By April-May 2024, the work-related accident investigation concluded, confirming my status. However, I continued to struggle with pain and was still unable to participate fully in physical activities. My time at the academy was technically considered "work," so until I could run and complete all physical requirements, I was on extended sick leave for continued treatment.

Adding to my distress, the college conducted an inspection, attempting to avoid financial responsibility for my extended recovery. They found minor errors in my medical leave paperwork and canceled three months of my leave, demanding a repayment of €3,362. Despite later acknowledging some leave as valid, they refused to adjust the bill accordingly.

Without financial support, and with a partner who barely covers our basic living costs, I am now faced with the €1,790 knee surgery on November 11, 2024, and the €3,362 repayment due by December 12, 2024—a total of €5,152. Currently, I have nothing. I won’t be able to return to work immediately after surgery, so I’m also seeking support to cover basic expenses, including rent (€472/month) and food (around €200/month). In total, I hope to raise €6,000 to cover my debt, medical costs, and essential expenses during recovery.

I am reaching out because I have no other options. Every euro counts and will bring me one step closer to rebuilding my health and life. I never imagined being in this situation, but I am determined to get back on my feet, complete my education, and pursue my career—though not with this institution.

Thank you for taking the time to read my story. Your support means the world to me. If you'd like to contact me, you can reach out on Facebook or find me on YouTube at @theBoxedCat, where I share my music in hopes of supporting myself. I am committed to overcoming this hardship and, one day, helping others in similar situations.

I also write stories (currently in Russian, with plans to translate them into English) and would be happy to share them with anyone interested.