A Home, A Heart, and Hope: Help Erin Keep Her Sanctuary

Our friendship began amidst the enchanting backdrop of 1980s Germany, where our families were stationed. It was there, amidst the cobblestone streets and bustling markets, that I met Erin. Even then, her radiant spirit shone through. She was the friend who could turn any moment into an adventure, the one who’d fill a room with laughter, and the soul who’d share her dreams with a contagious enthusiasm.

Erin is a woman of extraordinary talents and passions. She’s a culinary artist, transforming simple ingredients into gourmet delights. She’s graced the stages of local theaters, her voice resonating with warmth and power. She’s danced through life with a joy that’s impossible to resist, belted out tunes at countless concerts, and explored the world with an insatiable curiosity. She’s an animal and nature lover. Self-educated and born in Aruba, she carries the island’s vibrant spirit with her wherever she goes. And she is, quite simply, beautiful – inside and out.

When Erin was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis in 2000, her life changed dramatically. The active, adventurous woman who loved hiking and biking found herself facing daily battles with muscle weakness, mobility issues requiring a cane, walker, or wheelchair, loss of coordination, severe hearing loss, and constant vertigo. Even breathing became a struggle due to lung complications. The daily frustration of a body that doesn’t obey is a constant companion.

For 25 years, this house has been her sanctuary, a place where she's built a life despite these challenges. Her neighbors are her chosen family, and her doctors have provided decades of unwavering support. Now, she is also caring for her elderly cat, a cherished companion of her late mother, and her own beloved little dog. Erin worries what will happen to her pets if she loses her home.

Recently, Erin lost her beloved mother, whom she affectionately called "Mummy." Mummy was the embodiment of Midwestern kindness, a woman who represented the best of American spirit. A former Navy wife and dedicated Department of Defense employee, she retired to care for her own parents. When the ENRON collapse decimated her retirement savings, she bravely returned to work.

Mummy was Erin’s rock, her caregiver, and her dearest friend. She moved Erin into her home when Erin was diagnosed with MS, giving up a job at IBM to care for her friend. Erin cared for Mummy through her own illness until it was impossible to do so. Mummy passed away February 10, 2025.

Now, Erin faces a double tragedy. Adding to her grief is a devastating financial crisis. Her Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) payments inexplicably stopped in September 2024. Despite numerous calls, letters, and now, even reaching out to her Congressional representative, the payments remain suspended. The SSDI site lists her payments as suspended, but gives no reason why.

The financial strain is immense. She is relying on credit cards and the kindness of friends, a temporary solution at best. Rent in the region starts at $1700+ a month (way more than keeping the home)

Here's how your generous donations will help Erin:

Save her home: Pay off the reverse mortgage and ensure she can stay in her sanctuary of 25 years, a home for her pets.

Improve accessibility and safety: Repair flooring to ease mobility and install a chairlift for the stairs.

Increase energy efficiency: Replace old windows to reduce energy costs.

Cover immediate expenses: Pay off credit card debt and essential bills.

Support independent living: Ensure she can maintain her home with the help of a caregiver.

Companion and roommate: If Erin is able to keep her home, she has a disabled senior citizen friend who is ready to move in to share expenses and provide company.

My Goal: $250,000

Erin's goal is simple: to maintain her independence and stay in the home she loves, the home she shared with her beloved "Mummy" and her pets. Losing it would be a devastating blow.

A Special Offer from Erin:

As a thank you for your support, Erin is offering to share her culinary expertise, give you some great life advice, or just make you feel better with her wit and empathy. If you're able to help, simply call her, and she will walk you through creating a delicious recipe from any ingredients you have in your kitchen. You'll not only be helping Erin, but you'll also learn new cooking skills and enjoy the flavors of her passion!

Any contribution, no matter how small, will make a difference. Please share this campaign with your network. Let's rally around Erin and help her through this incredibly difficult time. Your kindness and support will help her keep her home, her pets, and maintain her dignity.

Thank you from the bottom of my heart.