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From Burnout to Bakery

$575 of $1,500 goal
Given by 15 generous donors in 10 weeks

Burnout to Bakery

Wellington

to keep this story short and brief, hello my name is Samantha Jones, Previously know as Phoenix Fortay. Lets just say i was a work-acholic ... severely. I spent days and nights working multiple jobs, Performing burlesque, creating and executing businesses all in the hopes that one day I could find stability, and time to sit down in my little cottage and breath. Little did I know that I would have to endure 2 years of chronic pain, anxiety, agoraphobia, and so much more to finally relies that I didn't need more money to be free, I just needed to slow down. ironic right? here i am asking for money...

I spent two years in bed unable to move, live or even love my family, as I healed I was slowly able to do more... and that's when I discovered my love for baking. Its been 6 months since I have been bedbound, and now I find myself baking every single day. Sourdough, Artisan, ciabatta and so much more. Although I am better, I still have a long way to go. But I believe opening up a micro bakery 2-3 days a week is a great start to recreate a life for myself that doesn't lead to burnout again.

My hopes is to one day be back on stage, performing burlesque, coming home and enjoying my micro bakery with local community. All the "wants and needs" I was working so hard for have appeared in my life with the simplicity of baking... its truly amazing how the universe will take you on the strangest route to your destination.

Use of funds

• Food safety certificate ($500 +)

• marketplace fridge ($50)

• packaging ($150)

• reg fees ($250+)

• baking tools e.g bowls, baking pans, whisks, bread pans, cooling racks ect ($350+)

• initial ingredients ($200)

• Cleaning supplies ect ($50+ )

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Latest update

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Burnout to bakery update!   27 April 2026

I’m overwhelmed with joy from everyone who has contributed to making this dream become a reality, I was not expecting this kind of support ❤️ I am forever grateful 🥹

A journalist recently reach out to me and asked for a more in-depth view of my story, so I gave her every appropriate detail I could think of , so looks like this journey might be published in the local papers! Nerve-racking but so amazing!!!

In other news, the website is almost complete! You will be able to access my recipes , read my story and so much more through the new website ☀️❤️

Thank you all again , update you again soon!!!

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Latest donations

Natalie
Natalie on 09 Jun 2026
From another who has had to learn the hard way the damage burnout and breakdown has on yourself, family and every aspect of being. I have spent my life giving to everyone else to the dettriment of myself and my 2 beautiful girls but am now on a healing journey to a new slower nature filled life - nurturing myself and my little family
$25
Felicity
Felicity on 19 May 2026
Samantha. Stay with us. You have so much to give, share and live for. Thank you for sharing this story of suffering, resilience and courage.
$50
samantha Jones

Thank you for your support! ❤️❤️❤️

samantha Jones
Rowena
Rowena on 27 Apr 2026
So glad you’ve found something that brings you joy and helps you heal xx
Private
samantha Jones

I really appreciate that ❤️

samantha Jones
Ricky Grant
Ricky Grant on 27 Apr 2026
Believe in yourself! Victory awaits!
$100
samantha Jones

This is amazing!!!!! Thank you so much!!!!!

samantha Jones
Rangi
Rangi on 27 Apr 2026
Private
samantha Jones

Thank you gorgeous!

samantha Jones

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samantha Jones's avatar
Created by, and paying to a verified bank account of, samantha Jones
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This campaign started on 15 Apr 2026 and ends on 15 Jul 2026.