I’ve always been careful in trying to never use my platform for “personal gain” and realize the ability to write on Chattanoogan.com is a rich gift I should never abuse. That said, I really need some help and can think of no better way to ask for it than this.

I have been knocked down, quite literally, by some bad medical problems and an equally sick real estate market in the past year. The side effects of 28 separate surgeries and the way I have handled my economic misfortune makes me far worse than the “Big Three” automakers, the stock market, or the thousands of other Americans who are floundering.

Wait … before you launch a “pity party” please realize that this process, especially the night I almost died, has enriched my life in a colossal way, that I am happier and finally free from the “stuff” I used to think was important.

But I need somewhere to stay starting just before Christmas and am hoping to find a farm in the country or a house tucked away in a rural setting that would benefit by having a human being staying there at nights. I cannot do much work, due to the fact I am down to one hand that functions, but I can make sure livestock gets water, that there isn’t a car that comes down the drive that goes unnoticed, and stuff like that. I’ll keep the house clean, too.

The easy thing would be to get a job, but, in honesty, I can’t right now; I’ve got some unavoidable surgeries after the first of the year and, with my infections, I’m best avoiding people or cooking your hot dogs. In short, I am looking for a place I can live by myself, stay warm and write. I love putting my musings on Chattanoogan.com and maybe it is time to start my book this winter, even if it will be written with just my left hand.

The doctors I have spoken with offer some pretty harsh solutions in trying to keep the arm and, if one of these doesn’t work, off it will come and I’ll become your pal, “Lefty.” In short, the medical mess is long from being over, but I can still toss a log on the fire, heat up a can of Campbell’s Chunky and the dogs are great in alerting me to any visitors.

Because I can’t work, I’ve applied for disability to give me a toe-hold. Like so many others who are reeling, I‘ve also had to initiate bankruptcy, and the bank just took back my car. Oddly, this doesn’t embarrass me, but rather gives me a bird’s eye view of what so many good and able people are going through with plant shutdowns, layoffs and the other horrors of the recession.

The big thing to remember is that this whole thing is one of life’s storms. Stay in the game and the sun will come back out. If I can get well, enduring whatever it takes to quell the infections and their side effects, I haven’t a doubt I’ll bounce back on my feet. God doesn’t make any junk and – trust me on this – I know He’s got some big plans for me.

I can spread feed hay, drive a tractor, any kind of truck, and, come spring, can bush-hog like a dandy. Better yet, my recent medical woes made me give up tobacco, alcohol, fast women, watching TV except for sports, and line dancing. I’m so docile many friends are convinced I’m becoming a monk.

Oh, if they told me I just had four weeks to live, the cigars and beer would come back quick, but – honest – if I thought that I would pass along one of my infections to anyone, I’d die. I don’t even shake hands with people.

So spread the word around, telling anyone that I need somewhere to sleep at night and that I’ll guard the place as best I can. I’m also looking for part-time work if it fits my abilities. If you have any ideas, please send me an e-mail because I need help in my struggle right now. I really appreciate it.

royexum@al.com