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Family Business crumbling due to Covid-19 Pandemic

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I'm hoping this campaign allows me to continue to feed my family in the short term. My long term goal is really the same. I don't know what else to do. ...open for suggestions... I have become disabled. It's been a long time coming and finally arrived five or six years ago. I had to retire from my full time job as a restaurant manager.  Retire...?, resign really.      I do not collect disability insurance. I have never applied. Call me crazy but I've always enjoyed earning my money.  I probably will eventually but not yet. Not yet! I have a rare genetic disorder known as E.D.S. and Dysautonomia that has impacted my joints pretty heavily. Dysautonomia is a "complication" that I deal with that makes most everyday things difficult for me.   I'm lucky enough to be blessed with some skills outside of the box that are allowing for me to continue to feed my family (it's been great).  I'm not going to be the next Neil Lane but I am going to use what god has given me and capitalize on it for as long as the blessings continue. That is what I am doing with this. Any donation will be greatly appreciated. Thank you in advance.       View some of my work and event history on Face Book           https://www.facebook.com/SilverNGemJewelry/  I have a small handmade ring and jewelry company https://jewelrysalehub.com  .      I started doing vendor events to promote my online business. But, I have found that the onsite vendor events are the only sustainable platform for my business. These are arts and entertainment fairs and festivals of all types. (You know the kind where hundreds or even thousands of people attend over a short period of days?) The kind of events that we probably won't be having again until this devastating virus is controlled and people stop dying from it.  That is clearly out of my control. I hope to qualify for the new "gig" worker unemployment benefits, at least for my son Maxx, as I  have been unable to secure any emergency PPP funds. (still trying though)   My handmade, Rocks & Metal, line of fine and sterling silver and natural earth gem jewelry is designed, crafted and retailed at craft fairs and festivals all by me and my only son Maxx. My business (was) / is on fire. We've had 3 straight years of growth. It is/ was my only form of income and I was even able to pay my son a little as well. He is a college freshman.   I have a small following in the state of CT and even around the world online(very Small), that show up at most of the shows that I participate in.  The industry is seasonal. The season should have started in late March. It did not.       I'm not just asking for a handout. I sell most of my rings, earrings, bracelets, and pendants onsite at these fairs for $45.00.   I will happily ship you a handmade sterling silver and natural earth gemstone ring or other piece in your size for a donation of $25.00 or more as long as supplies last and I can afford to do so. That's more than a 50% discount! (please provide me with your contact information if you wish to receive a piece)     I'm hoping this campaign allows me to continue to feed my family in the short term. My long term goal is really the same. I don't know what else to do. ...open for suggestions... Thank you for simply spending your time on my issue. Ray and Family

Organizer

K. Scully-LaRose
Organizer
Simsbury, CT

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