Finally: Some Good News!

Kim learned Friday that she is eligible for Medical Coupons--at least for 3 months! This means that her much-needed surgery will be covered, and this is a HUGE relief for her and her family. She has an appointment in June to schedule her surgery, which will take place in Seattle.

In the meantime, she is now behind on her May house payment, the first time this has ever happened to her. She and her husband have always made sufficient money to pay their bills on time, and now they are forced to declare bankruptcy, which is tough for them to accept.

Being poor isn't for sissies. Learning to navigate the agencies and bureaucracies involved in trying to get help is daunting. So is realizing that you are treated differently when you find yourself in such circumstances. Kim has been treated rudely and feels embarrassed by her situation.

As I mentioned before, Kim has M.S., Lupus, and a heart defect, as well as the recently-diagnosed intestinal problem for which she needs surgery. When her son--now 5 years old--was born, Kim ended up paralized and bed-ridden for about one year. I believe this was a result of the Lupus. Even then, the family had savings to survive until she was well enough to work again.

So now, with medical coverage from the state, the priority of our fundraising effort is to provide financial support to see them through the months ahead. Their main worry is that they will have to walk away from their house. On top of all the other turmoil created by health issues, this would remove the only stable aspect of their life: HOME.

I am asking for your help. Here are 3 suggestions:

1. Buy one or more $5 raffle tickets from me to have a chance to win the twin sized quilt I have just finished. There are just 250 tickets available, and the drawing will be on June 28. If you send me an email (fgwing@charter.net) and let me know how many you would like, I will send you your ticket numbers and you can mail me a check. Or ask me anytime you see me, as I will have tickets with me.

2. Donate directly to the donation account for Kimberly Castro at any branch of Key Bank. There is one near Fred Meyer, and one on Yakima Avenue near First Street.

3. Commit to contributing an amount each month for the next 6 months to help the family make their house payments. I've already had 2 friends volunteer to give $100 a month. That is amazing when you think about it! But I know I myself have so much and am thankful every morning when I wake up and realize I really don't have worries. Thankfully, I am healthy and my family is secure. Any amount you can give will help!

Kim is so grateful for the help provided from you, my dear friends. So far I know of at least $1000 you have given. Checks for the raffle or donations may be made out to Kimberly Castro.

Thank you, from the bottom of my heart.

Gayle