Grateful for your support — and still pushing forward
Dear Readers,
I want to start this post by offering a huge thank you to everyone who has contributed so far. Your support has been incredibly humbling, and I’ve been genuinely moved by the generosity of my readers. I’ve always known that the Paragraph Stacker community is something special, but seeing how you’ve rallied around me during this tough time has only deepened my gratitude. Every donation, every paid subscription, every kind note—it all means more than I can express.
That said, the fundraising momentum has slowed in recent days. This isn’t unusual for a campaign like this, but it’s important to acknowledge that I’m still very much in need of support. I’m doing everything I can to keep my head above water, but I’m still facing some immediate challenges that need to be addressed—now.
The Situation: A Few Roadblocks
Many of you know I’ve been balancing multiple jobs to make ends meet. I had hoped to increase my hours at my part-time job to give my finances the boost they need, but that plan has been delayed due to cash flow issues at the business. It’s incredibly frustrating, but I’m doing my best to adapt.
I’m also dealing with health challenges that limit my options. A recent diagnosis of Achilles tendinitis is one more hurdle I’ve had to face, and it could require expensive new footwear to manage the pain and keep me mobile. When you’re on your feet as much as I am, proper footwear is more than a luxury—it’s a necessity. But the cost is another barrier I wasn’t expecting.
To complicate matters further, my district didn’t make funds available for summer planning, even though I’m now tasked with learning an entirely new curriculum for a new grade level. As an educator, this leaves me in a difficult position, trying to prepare for the upcoming school year without the necessary resources. Between that, my ongoing part-time work limitations, and my health issues, it’s been an exhausting few weeks. I’m trying to manage it all while still making sure I continue providing quality content here for you, but there’s no sugarcoating it—the pressure is mounting.
Why I’m Reaching Out Again
There are a few immediate needs I’m trying to cover: vehicle tag renewal, medical bills, and urgent expenses related to my health. These are costs that have to be met, and I’m not sure how I’m going to cover them without some more assistance. I’m trying to avoid going further into debt or missing payments, but the reality is, I need a financial cushion to get through this rough patch.
This is why I’m humbly asking for one-time donations—anything you can contribute will go directly toward these bills and help keep my head above water. If you’ve already contributed, thank you from the bottom of my heart. If you’re able to give again, or if you haven’t yet had the chance, now is the time.
I’m still working toward the 100 paid subscribers goal. Reaching that milestone would provide long-term sustainability, but right now, one-time contributions are what I need most. Any amount, big or small, will make a difference.
How You Can Help
If you’re in a position to help, here’s how you can contribute:
One-Time Donations:
PayPal: Send a contribution via PayPal at paypal.me/paragraphstacker.
Venmo: My handle is @newsmanone.
CashApp: Find me at $paragraphstacker.
Mail: You can also send a donation by mail to 1217 24th St., Apt 36, Des Moines, IA 50311. Any form of support, whether financial or just a kind note, is appreciated more than you know.
Anyone who makes a one-time donation of $100 or more will receive a lifetime subscription to the Paragraph Stacker at no additional cost. (If you have already done this, please email me so I can make that possible.)
Paid Subscriptions: If you’re not already a paid subscriber, consider joining us. We’re still working toward 100 paid subscribers, and that’s the goal I’m striving for to provide consistent, reliable content moving forward.
Contact Information for Verification
If you have any concerns about this appeal or would like to verify that it’s really me asking for help, I completely understand. Please reach out directly at newsmanone@gmail.com or 515-371-9453. I’m happy to verify the situation and answer any questions you may have.
Closing Thoughts
I’m continuing to push through this challenging time, and I’m committed to delivering the same thoughtful and authentic content that you’ve come to expect from me. I believe in this community, and I’m confident that we can make it through this together.
Thank you, again, for your support, your generosity, and your belief in my work. Whether you’re able to donate or not, I’m truly grateful for each of you. I’ll continue to give my best to this newsletter, and with your help, I’ll be able to get through this rough patch and keep writing for you.
Thank you.
Daniel P. Finney
Your Friendly Neighborhood Paragraph Stacker
Daniel P. Finney is a member of the Iowa Writers Collaborative, but don’t hold that against them. Please visit their page to view a full roster of writers and consider subscribing to their columns. Writing is hard work; people ought to get paid for it. If you enjoy it, throw them a couple of bucks. They earned it.
FINNEY’S NIFTY 50 SPECIAL: The Paragraph Stacker’s chief typist, Daniel P. Finney, turns 50 in June. Celebrate by becoming a paid subscriber at a 50% discount for your first year.