Case 73: It's been a tough few years for Ms. J. Her son's wife died two years ago, then her son died, too, leaving a daughter, 13, who Ms. J has taken to raise. They live on Ms. J's government assistance. Last year, Ms. J was diagnosed with stage-3 breast cancer — and a busy schedule of doctor visits, testing, chemotherapy and surgery began. The treatments have left her with imbalance, fatigue and painful neuropathy in her hands and feet. She now uses a walker to get around. Then her house was struck by the May tornado, creating massive roof damage and leaving her home exposed to heavy rains. They lost personal belongings, furniture and clothing — and they didn't have insurance. FEMA helped with the roof but her upstairs flooring needs to be replaced from water damage. Ms. J, a woman of faith, is determined to make the best of her situations. She and her granddaughter would be very grateful for any assistance, and identified needed help with transportation, food, Christmas gift certificates, clothing, furniture, household repairs, plus cleaning, laundry and personal care items.
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Case 74: Ms. A is a 61-year-old woman living with multiple chronic and severe health conditions that she has been battling for years, ever since she was diagnosed with a cancerous mass on her spine. The mass greatly impairs her ability to stand, walk, and she has had some of her toes and part of her left foot amputated. She has also begun experiencing seizures, which are becoming more frequent. On top of her medical issues, Ms. A was also a victim of identity fraud this year and has not received her Social Security payment since May. This has left her without funds to pay rent for the past three months and to buy needed items. She is grateful that the property manager is willing to wait for her to pay rent, but Ms. A would appreciate any help.
Case 75: Mr. A, 35, is a single father of five children and a domestic violence survivor. He has been the sole provider and caregiver for his four minor children for the past three years. Mr. A lost employment several months ago and he's facing financial struggles with home repairs, paying the mortgage and bills and everything growing kids need. He ensures that all of his children have a good education, are safe and well. He said that putting a smile on his kids' faces is all that matters. This family could use help with bills, repairs and beds and linens, and toys for the children.Â
Case profiles by David Hunn, Ethan Colbert and Sarah Garrecht Gassen
