Thorn lets us know that legendary author, Goddess worshipper, and feminist Z. Budapest is facing a serious health crisis and needs our help.

Z. Budapest

“Z has a very serious bacterial infection which is causing complications with her hip and prosthesis. She is now facing two major surgical events:

1. removal of the prosthesis for three months while the infection is
treated with antibiotics
2. replacement of the prosthesis, continued antibiotics and physical
therapy (three month recovery)

The first surgery date has not been set. The doctors are still working to determine the specific bacterial strain(s) to formulate the best antibiotic/medicine therapy. Having the prosthesis out for three months will inhibit mobility (nothing connecting the leg to pelvis), cause muscles to atrophy/shrink, which may result in shortening of the leg and need to use a cane. Please pray for our treasured crone, send her positive energy and do magickal workings for her throughout this long medical battle and recovery.”

For those wanting to help support Z. fiscally you can donate through Paypal, or you can mail donations to:

The Kindred of ShiEndra, Inc
c/o of Zsuzsanna Budapest
24378 Calaveras Road
Hayward, CA 94545

Why would a “famous” author need our help? As the recent events surrounding Robert Anton Wilson’s near-eviction on deaths door have taught us, most niche authors don’t make that much money. Many have to constantly release new books, maintain hectic speaking tours, and work jobs or sell products on the side just to get by. One result is that a large number of authors and elders in our community (along with 46 million other Americans) don’t have adequate health care for when an emergency arises. Some who do have access to health care often find themselves destitute afterwards because their fragile revenue streams dry up while in the hospital.

This issue isn’t going away any time soon. As the first and second generations of modern Pagans reach retirement and old age you will most likely see more and more authors, elders, and teachers within our faith communities unable to make ends meet. If there was ever an issue that needs addressing and a serious plan it is this one. Constant calls for handouts won’t work for everyone, since many elders aren’t “famous” enough to garner the sympathy of a large enough body of people. Many of us may not want an institutional church structure, but we may need hospice and health-care strategies sooner than we think.

Tags: Paganism