u/pile_o_garbage

I have a scorpion who unfortunately has mycosis. I knew this when I got her and her stay with me is hospice care. In the months that I've had her, I've grown to really love her and the thought of her death is tearing me up. More than that is trying to plan for afterwards.

I know people often pin invert pets, but with her mycosis, I wouldn't feel comfortable with that risk. I also don't think I would be able to look at her body like that, even if it was safe for future invertebrate pets.

I rent and my housing hasn't exactly been stable, so burying her isn't an option. I would hate to have to leave her behind in a move or have to dig her back up.

I'm honestly at a loss. I want to be prepared when it happens, but I can't think how. Does anyone have any ideas?

I am currently uninsured (I don't qualify for Medicaid and can't afford my own plan) and can't afford the Student Health Plan. I have been getting just enough financial aid to barely cover half-time enrollment (two/three classes per semester). I still end up paying out of pocket, but I can just barely afford it.

I will not be able to manage the $2000 per semester fee tacked onto my tuition.

I've been thinking about cutting my coursework down to one class so that I don't need to have health insurance, but I'm worried about how that will affect my financial aid. I've used TOPP to be able to pay for previous semesters and am only able to afford around $300 a month. If I need to pay that amount or less, I'll be alright, but I can't do more.

I'm already in so much debt and being in school is the only way I am able to hold off those payments. I really really don't want to take out any more loans.

Does anyone know how badly going below half-time impacts financial aid?

Thank you in advance for any advice. I'm beyond stressed out rn. I have an appointment with my advisor next week, but I am hoping for some advice from fellow students in the meantime.