My name is Ann Bangs. I'm an animal search and rescue worker and a security guard at the Getty Museum. I'm also a volunteer C.E.R.T. (Community Emergency Response Team) member, helping the community in times of disasters.

I'm coming to you because I'm having my own disaster. It started with someone stealing my ID and debit card number, then trying to cash 8 checks from New York Tax Collector from my account. There were no funds because I keep my money in a separate savings account, so all checks were returned for insufficient funds. The bank notified me by email, which they had never done before; they always called or texted if fraud was detected. Well, because I never look at my email unless I know I'm getting one, they closed my account, taking the $1k I had in that third savings account and $8k in my stock portfolio.

Because of this, I was unable to pay October's rent on any of my storages (3) nor my rent on my house. My mom and dad's things, like old photos of them back in college and my mom's Nancy Drew mysteries books (first edition in perfect condition) that I want to keep along with my camping gear, are in storage. I'm heartbroken because I was put in this predicament by the work of some thief.

To top it off, my work has decreased my days and hours due to me being diagnosed with fibromyalgia. So, my money coming in is not where it should be. I do now have room in my house for my parents' mementos, and it would really help me mentally if I could get the money to pay for the storage so I can get that stuff that I really want out and get rid of the rest, either by selling, donating, or throwing away.

January is coming up, and I'd like to start the new year with a positive outlook. So, I'm now asking for your help to bring my mom and dad back home.