Lisa M. Castellanos

Prince William County

Washington Metropolitan Area

Manassas

Virginia

I am the proprietor of Past Tense Historical Research Services, which specializes in genealogy and historical research. As a Manassas resident, I can frequently be found noshing at Okra&#39;s, Katerina&#39;s, or City Grill. I believe in supporting local businesses and love to shop for books at Prospero&#39;s, Deda Notion&#39;s soaps (when I have not been able to make the Saturday Farmer&#39;s Market) and gifts for family at Whimsical Galerie, or at Iron Horse Antiques. I love History, ghost stories and folklore, and spending time with my husband while hitting estate sales an enjoying the great outdoors.

Manassas Park

Fairfax County

Centreville

Fairfax Station

Chantilly

Dale City

Lake Ridge-Occoquan

Michael O'Connell

Fairfax City

Burke

Woodbridge

Lorton

Harrisonburg

Event on Friday April 26, 2024 at 11:00am

Afternoon Tea Experience - Tea Room @ Blue Ridge Florist

Fredericksburg

FTE Presents: Barefoot in the Park

Event on Saturday April 27, 2024 at 10:00am

Old Town Manassas Art Show and Spring Craft Fair

Leesburg

Event on Saturday April 27, 2024 at 12:00pm

Purcellville Music & Arts Festival

Event on Saturday April 27, 2024 at 7:00pm

Mix It Up Sports

McLean

Shoff Promotions Comic Book & Sports Card Show

Event on Sunday April 28, 2024 at 11:00am

Metaphysical Market at the Winery 

An Irish Music Festival 

Event on Tuesday April 30, 2024 at 8:30am

T-Mobile Tuesdays: Get Fresh Perks Every Week

I humbly ask for your support after you read my story below:
I'm Cindy Huber of Manassas, living with a physical disability. After graduating from Lake Braddock Secondary School in 1982, I served as a Prince William County Police Officer and later transitioned to Security Management. I've held roles like Director of Security at Tysons Corner Center and Branch Manager at Wells Fargo Guard Services.
In 1999, a back injury altered my life trajectory. Despite treatments and surgeries, my pain persisted, forcing me to go on disability by 2002 and leaving behind a career integral to my identity. Over the years, I sought relief from specialists across states, underwent additional surgeries, and managed to discontinue opioid medications by 2006. Yet, my chronic pain endured.
By 2021, my pain had escalated to an unbearable level, prompting my sixth back surgery at Johns Hopkins. Despite this intervention, my pain persisted, leading to a challenging 8-month ordeal with a new pain management doctor. This experience was particularly distressing after my trusted doctor of 17 years had stopped practicing in the field. Faced with relentless pain and dwindling hope for any quality of life, I made the heart-wrenching decision to attempt to end my suffering.
On May 5, 2023, I attempted to end my life using a .38 Chief's Special revolver. Incredibly, I survived, and subsequently, I was fitted with a spinal cord stimulator&mdash;a device the last pain management doctor had initially suggested and then stated I wasn't eligible for. This device has offered me some relief from my chronic pain.
The aftermath of my suicide attempt left me grappling with visual, vestibular, and cognitive impairments, compounded by post-concussion syndrome. This syndrome manifests as persistent dizziness and occasional migraines. These debilitating conditions have made it impossible for me to work, even part-time from home&mdash;a role I once maintained to supplement my Social Security Disability Income (SSDI).
Since May 2023, my medical challenges have further intensified. I've been diagnosed with diabetes, Systemic Lupus (recent tests indicate it may have gone undiagnosed for over twenty years), and metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis, which has progressed to cirrhosis of the liver. These diagnoses add layers of complexity to my existing health issues. Recently, I've learned that I need three more surgeries: facial reconstructive surgery to address sinus structure damage, and total knee replacements for both knees. The first knee replacement is scheduled for July 2024.
Reflecting on my journey, I've come to understand the importance of self-advocacy and seeking multiple medical opinions. Though the path ahead is challenging, I remain resilient and optimistic. I'm dedicated to striking a balance between managing my pain and crafting a meaningful and fulfilling life.
Today, I live in Manassas, renting a basement from my brother's family. While the move has brought emotional support, the lack of accessibility in the home poses daily challenges. Financially, I'm strained due to medical expenses, which included co-pays for over 200 medical-related appointments in 2023 and 60 so far in 2024.
To make my living space accessible, my friend Jean Chalupsky initiated a GoFundMe campaign, aiming to raise $60,000 for essential modifications:
&middot; A wheelchair-accessible bathroom with a shower
&middot; A functional kitchenette with countertop space, storage, and a sink
&middot; An outside platform lift for wheelchair access
These accessibility modifications, designed by an engineer from the Virginia Department of Aging and Rehabilitative Services, are vital to improving my independence and overall well-being.
Please consider donating and sharing this GoFundMe campaign with your church congregations, colleagues, friends, and families. Your support will make a tangible difference in improving my daily life and fostering greater independence.
<a href="https://gofund.me/33e54c2b" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://gofund.me/33e54c2b</a>

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