Update to the update: Ruby has been admitted (yesterday) to a specialist ward dedicated to neurological and psychomotor issues and we feel they are in good hands.

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Update to the below: Ruby is now seriously weak. We tried for a hospital admission on advice of the general practitioner but they said Ruby's not in danger so we need to go via other channels: Monday or Tuesday we have a speed neurology appointment, will know exactly when Monday morning. We desperately need various help items (including a simple fold-up wheelchair for emergencies) so if people could be kind enough to share any of the help options below where other can see them that would be deeply appreciated. They include a crowdfund, direct donation options (including if desired after reading my free science fiction), my Patreon page, and my photography sales page.

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     Our 18-year-old transgender nonbinary kid Ruby was very ill at the beginning of the pandemic. Their health never really returned to anything like normal and then they began to decline again, all the while trying to navigate doing a double workload in their final year of high school and starting the required first year of college (with at the time the intention to continue, and get a degree).

Their relative recovery didn't last, and now they are seriously disabled and we believe also have long covid. It's such a complex situation that it's being difficult getting them the help they need.
We are meeting each challenge to their health and quality of life head-on, doing whatever it takes.

Ideally, Ruby will be able to move to a private, personal apartment in a building where help (for housekeeping, some cooking, some personal care, etc.) is available 24/7, but these places are difficult to arrange and not always available. Ruby's partner will be able to apply to move over here and live with Ruby, alleviating these needs, in three years: by law they both need to be 21.

     Ruby is more than welcome to stay with us, of course, forever,

but this is a young adult, a restless spirit trapped by horrific limitations.

They need their own space, their own tempo, their own situation.

They need to be free.
     And while we're at it, our house is NOT wheelchair friendly, despite our ongoing efforts. It's a typical single-family Dutch row house and there isn't even ROOM for a wheelchair upstairs where their room and teh shower are. We're doing our best.

     We're struggling to make ends meet and face challenges on two small disability pensions for three people. Every bit helps, immensely.

It would mean the world if you would consider browsing my photo portfolio (button below) and maybe buying a photo or two; if you don't like the print options you can opt for the digital download and use your favorite printer.

     It's possible also to donate directly to my Paypal if you prefer, via the button below or the links on the free science fiction pages in the menu at the top of this page.

And lastly, I have a Patreon page (button below), which will become more active and interesting once we're through these crises.

Every cent will go toward Ruby's health needs, our basic survival needs, The Unexpected, and for the upkeep of Ruby's new emotional-support buddy, ten-month-old delightful goofball tabby Curse (it's a Sonic fandom thing, I am told).