I am 57 years old and have been living on disability benefits for 14 years. I have had a heart condition for a long time and have an ICD implant; I also have severe musculoskeletal problems, which make both daily life and working very difficult.

My partner and I live in modest circumstances. He is 45, works, gets up at the crack of dawn, and does everything he can to keep us afloat. My elderly parents are also part of my life; they are both around 83 and need attention, care and help.

I’m not raising money for a lavish lifestyle. Not for luxury. But to give myself a chance at a more stable, secure fresh start: for medication, medical appointments, basic living expenses, supporting my family, and looking after our animals.

We have 11 cats and a dachshund, whom we look after responsibly. We live in difficult circumstances, but we will not abandon what we have taken on out of love and responsibility.

This appeal is not a plea for pity. It is an honest portrayal of a real-life situation. I am asking for help so that, as a sick person living on disability benefits, I can build a more dignified and secure life for myself, my family and our animals.

To anyone who, from these few lines, understands the desire of four adults and twelve small animals to live, I am already grateful.

I am not asking for luxury. Just a chance for a calmer, more humane future.

Thank you to everyone who reads this, understands it, shares it, or helps in any way.

Thank you for your humanity.