Cameron's Missed Summer Work Fund

Last fall my colleague Mike Massengale and I were commiserating about sending our children off to college – a first for both of us. A few weeks ago we were chatting about the adjustment of having them back home for the summer. These are the milestones parents expect to experience and we share a common anxiety as our children begin to make their way in the world. Mike’s son was doing well. After successfully completing a demanding year at The Military College of South Carolina (The Citadel), Cameron found summer employment with a butcher. He planned to purchase a truck with his earnings.

No one could have anticipated the event that occurred on June 6. While working at the butcher shop, Cameron’s right hand – his dominant hand – was pulled into a meat grinder. Doctors tried to save at least two of his fingers, but infection soon dictated an amputation at the wrist. Now, instead of enjoying carefree summer earning money to buy a truck, Cameron will endure hours of physical therapy as he adjusts to a new way of life.

When we hear stories like this, our first reaction is an overwhelming need to hug our children. Then we wish there was something we could do. As I watched my own son head off to his summer job I couldn’t help but think, wouldn’t it be nice if Cameron could still get his truck? This is something we can do to show our support. Let’s help Cameron get his truck. Cameron expected to earn $2600 from his summer job. Let’s help him reach this goal!