Hey everyone! I am posting in hopes that I can find the kindness of strangers here.

I'm raising money to attend the 2014 Your Weight Matters Convention in Orlando, FL. Donations will be used to cover registration, hotel accommodations, and transportation.

Why am I asking for your help? I am out of work at this time. I have had several job interviews and had no luck getting a job yet. I blame a lot of this on my weight and weight bias. I chose to seek funding for the convention so I can better myself and not be a financial burden. Sure, I could charge the trip, but that only adds debt. I am hoping that with the care of my family, friends, and the kindness of strangers, that I can get to my goal.

This is not a vacation. I have two reasons that I want to attend this convention. As I aim to have weight-loss surgery this year, I hope to learn more about my health and how to live with the surgery and make the best health choices for me. While at the convention, I hope to take advantage of networking opportunities and find a group that works for the obese. People of weight face many challenges (apart from health) such as weight bias in the workplace, social stigmas, etc. and I hope to position myself to help others overcome obstacles.

Any donation helps. If you know anyone who may be interested in helping out, please pass this along to them!

To learn more about me, or to donate, please click on the below link.

https://fundly.com/the-new-jeff-campaign

My biggest recommendation would be to ask your local WLS center what local companies have insurance that covers WLS and see if any are a good fit for you, that way you get coverage for your surgery.