Why I'm having a sale.

Here's what I sent in my newsletter in case you're not on my mailing list.

"Now for the sad news.
If you follow me on facebook or twitter you may already now that my Mother has been diagnosed with stage 4 pancreatic cancer. This is a fast moving, hard to treat, and extremely painful disease. Generally the prognosis once you're diagnosed is 3-6 months. The majority of my time this summer has been spent driving 70 miles everyday to take care of her, while raising my 4 year old. Needless to say I have completely neglected my business, and whether it's that or the economy, I have had dismal internet sales for the past 4 months. Usually I would make up for slow sales at the many craft shows I travel to attend, but unfortunately this year I have been rejected from most of the ones I've applied to. Even ones I've done in the past.

There is a very big possibility that I will lose my house in the next few months if I do not raise about $2500 right now. I know there are so many people who are in similar or worse situations right now, and I feel horrible about even bringing this up. What I'm asking is that if you were thinking about purchasing any of my pieces before the end of the year that you do so now. You'll save 25% and get a free gift (with every $75 spent). Win-win for everyone, right?

Thank you all for taking the time to read this and for supporting my art. I hope to be able to create for many years to come."

I really hope this didn't come off whiny, or sound like I'm begging. I'm just trying to be very upfront. I don't know what else to do.