Carolyn (Candy) Cunningham... A Friend in Need

Carolyn (Candy) Cunningham…A Friend in 
Need

We all experience medical problems as we age. But, our longtime friend, Carolyn (Candy) Cunningham, has been hit particularly hard. Some of you know Carolyn/Candy from the various schools she attended, others from her professional life. But together, maybe we can reach out to give her a helping hand.

After teaching elementary school in the '70s, Carolyn/Candy made a decision to change careers, yet still serve children in need. She went back to school. After getting her psychology degree, she received her doctorate in Clinical Psychology. She then opened her own practice counseling abused and traumatized children. She authored three books and consulted all over the country.

About ten years ago health problems began to plague her. It began with being diagnosed with spinal stenosis, a narrowing of the spine which puts pressure on the nerves in the spine. It caused her to experience a tingling in her limbs, balance issues and excruciating pain in her back. She has severe osteoporosis. She fell, which resulted in compression fractions. Pain, loss of mobility and the inability to interact eye-to-eye with her small clients forced Carolyn to close her beloved practice helping children six years ago. Since closing her practice, Carolyn has had mounting medical bills and is having a difficult time facing these ongoing financial hardships.

Carolyn/Candy shares an apartment with a lovely friend who helps defray some of her expenses, but she is having a difficult time covering all of her rent, utilities, cell phone, doctor bills, insurance and food with her only source of income, social security. She owns an emotional support dog, Minnie Moo, which is an essential buddy for Candy. Food and vet care for Minnie Moo are added expenses.

In the midst of this historic pandemic, we know that times are difficult for most. But Carolyn/Candy has no other place to go. If we could all donate something to help, collectively we can make a difference in her life. Please visit the GoFundMe page set up to help her bridge the gap with her needs. It will be so appreciated.

Thank you,

Kris Colberg Stewart, Samohi '68
Nicki Decker Alexander, Samohi '68