Aid for Poppi: Our Loving Family Pillar

Matthew "Poppi" Hinds is truly an amazing man, and in his 64-almost 65-years on this Earth, he has lived an amazing life. There's not many things he hasn't done--from shoveling hog manure, to ironworking, to nursing as a combat medic in the Army--or places he hasn't seen--from his birthplace in Illinois, to his current home in Kentucky, to places he's been stationed, like Germany and Somalia. As Poppi himself would say, he's "been there, done that, got the t-shirt." And amidst all his hard work and adventures, he met the love of his life and had 3 awesome kids who promoted him from "Matt" to "Dad." Eventually, those kids had kids of their own, and he got yet another promotion from "Dad" to "Poppi." And although I'm just an honorary granddaughter, in the 5 years I've known him, it's never felt right to call him anything other than Poppi. For even at first encounter, he's the most welcoming, caring person you'd ever hope to meet, and he makes a place you've never known feel like your childhood home. To know him is to love him, and to be loved by him in return is truly a God-sent blessing. No matter what challenges you're overcoming, or battles you're fighting, you can count on Poppi to be there with all the support and guidance you could ever need. He'll say, "Love your hair, hope you win," and with that, you're ready to take on the world.

But there comes a time in life when the roles have to reverse--when the (grand)kids have to step up and start taking care of the (grand)parents. We knew the day would someday come, but we were tremendously ill-prepared for just how soon that day would be; for his decline in health was intense and abrupt. But throughout these disheartening times, we try to remind ourselves that the Lord's ways are not our ways--though we may have moments that lead us to question His righteousness and reasoning, only He knows the bigger picture. And when all hope seems lost and we're clueless as to what to do next, we must rely on His strength and love, and ask for His guidance.

So we sat and we prayed, together and individually, and decided on this--to seek help from those that know the Marvelous Matthew Hinds. As I said before, to know him is to love him. So we humbly and gratefully ask for you to extend your hand and your love to Poppi (and us) during these times. Help us give to the man that gave until he had nothing left to give. Any and everything helps. And anyone that can't contribute to donations at the time, it's okay!! Please just keep Matt in your thoughts and prayers!!

With much love and appreciation,

The Hinds and Mock families

[I set the goal amount lower than what we need to cover all of Poppi's expenses, but I know it still looks intimidating. I'm sorry!! The ultimate goal is to raise enough to help us get on our feet, so that we can comfortably take over the financial burden that Poppi has carried for years.]