Three Winters on the Streets: A Fight to Rebuild for My Children

For the past three winters, I have been living on the streets—battling not just the cold and uncertainty, but also serious health conditions: COPD, Pulmonary Fibrosis, and a chronic respiratory disorder. This is the reality I’ve endured while trying to build a future for myself and my two children, who are currently in Australia.

How I Became Homeless:

It all began when I issued a 14-day notice to remedy to my landlord due to urgent repairs needed at the property. Within just one minute, my landlord responded by issuing me a 90-day notice to vacate, claiming the repairs were too extensive. I tried to comply, but on day 89, the landlord entered my bedroom without notice, threw a trespass notice at me, and left.

I immediately went to the Taihape Police Station to question the validity of the trespass, but no officers were present. When I returned, I found the landlord had smashed the front door window and changed the locks. I was locked out, unable to retrieve any of my belongings. I lost over $28,000 worth of personal property, which was effectively stolen.

My Health and Daily Struggles:

Living with progressive lung disease means every breath is a struggle. Cold nights aggravate my symptoms. I've had days where walking a few steps felt like climbing a mountain. Despite needing stability and care, I had no shelter, no warmth—only the fight to survive.

Why I Keep Going – My Kids:

They’re in Australia, waiting for the day I can bring them home to a safe, warm place.