About three weeks ago, I was blindsided by a layoff from my role as a graphic designer for a charity in the UK. I had been working fully remote for about nine months, which allowed me to move in with my girlfriend in a peaceful suburban area. We were just starting to build our life together when everything changed. On the same day I was let go, my girlfriend received a Stage 2 Lymphoma diagnosis. We were both devastated, and it was a surreal moment as we cried together, trying to process the news. Since the layoff, I've managed to secure some freelance design work, including a one-day retainer starting in July, which pays about twice my previous monthly salary. My goal is to build a financial buffer to help us through this tough time, especially as my girlfriend begins her chemotherapy. I've had several meetings and calls about potential opportunities, and even if nothing materializes, the retainer will cover our basic expenses. I'm committed to going all-in on freelancing to maintain flexibility and support my girlfriend as best as I can. It's a challenging time, but I'm taking it one day at a time for my own sanity and to stay strong for her.