James "Little Deer" Hancock Fundraiser

Hello, my name is Michael Hancock, and some of you might know me from scouting adventures as Little Deer's son. I didn't know I would ever be making a Gofundme page dedicated to the financial situation my dad is in, but here we go! Now some context.

When I was little, both my parents struggled financially, but they always wanted me to live a happy and fun-filled childhood. They both worked so hard to accomplish that, especially my Dad. Spending long hours driving as a field computer/printing technician for years, focusing on paying the house notes, utilities, and taking the initiative to fix any problem, like car care. We camped frequently throughout my childhood before, and during Cub Scouts and Boy Scouts, before they are now known as Scouting. He always put my happiness before anything. During the 2008 housing crisis, I finally understood, after overhearing my parents' concerns over possibly losing the house and struggling with overwhelming debt. I never wanted to ask for more or cause more financial stress, and I always accepted any gift with gratitude, no matter how cheap or small it was compared to others around me. I knew of the struggles they faced, and I wanted to help them in any way I could, I was too young, then, to know how.

After I turned 15, I applied for Publix, not just because my parents wanted me to work, but because I wanted to help them pay bills. I remember telling them that, but they wanted me to build up my own independence instead of burdening myself with their struggles. That was a hard fact for me to swallow, and I knew they only wanted what was best for me, no matter how much they sacrificed. Their retirement didn't look too promising, but they desired my smile over their future.

My father retired with barely enough to get by, but with his usual resourcefulness, he was able to make a little seem to last a long time. He couldn't do it on his own though, due to a loan still remaining, so he needed a roommate. I couldn't be that roommate to help pay, but I was able to find someone for him. His charitable heart continued to give to others, even his roommate... That kindness I wish to repay as he strived to help his new roommate, by helping fund his stay, changing their life. Sadly, his charitable nature was a downfall as his retirement has dwindled down to almost nothing, and I wish to help pay back that kindness he has shown me and many others, scouts and friends alike.