Aid for Family...Retired Couple After Fire Loss

Maria Esther Mankowski is my aunt who will be the beneficiary who will manage funds to ease their transition after the loss.

My aunt and uncle are among the many who are devastated by the Eaton Fire in Altadena. Like so many others, they have lost everything. While sleeping, wind caught fire to a house on their block, and they were awoken with minutes to evacuate. They are still in shock but have local family and friends who have taken them in with their cat, Sable, at this time.

They are private, retired folks who were reluctant to ask for this kind of help. They, on the other hand, have loyally helped their friends and family over the years, nursing their own parents through old age and sickness. My aunt and uncle always welcome you with home-cooked meals, lots of conversation, and laughs.

Having lived in Alta Dena for over thirty years, they made it their sanctuary. My uncle, over time, made his own man cave where, after many years of giving to others, he just enjoys the ability to play guitar for hours. He will always invite you and encourage you to play music with him. My aunt is also a giver, always remembering the children in the family and finding gifts that are tailored to their interests. They show their love for others, and you feel it.

They treasure the simple things in life. They treasure each other. They have a kind friendship with each other, and they are kind friends to others. Their beautiful garden had vignettes of little statues and a variety of plants that my uncle tended to with great care. You felt the peace.

Their children, extended family, and friends humbly ask for your support to help them at this late stage of their lives. My aunt and uncle were hard workers who just try to make it by and be good people.