I'm raising this fundraiser for my longtime friend Dan Tallman and Dan’s 17-year-old daughter, Eva, after their lives were changed by a devastating house fire several weeks ago. The electrical fire started in Dan’s garage and spread into the house, causing such severe damage that the home had to be gutted. To make this situation worse, unfortunate circumstances meant there was not an active insurance policy on the home at the time, and Eva’s car was also destroyed in the fire.

Dan is paralyzed from the waist down, uses a wheelchair, and lives on a fixed income. As a single parent, Dan is also caring for a daughter who has had medical needs, which adds to the ongoing financial strain for their family.

Right now, Dan and Eva are staying with Dan’s parents while they try to navigate a path forward. Donations will help with cleanup, building materials, labor for rebuilding, and everyday living expenses while they are displaced. Because these needs will continue over time, predictable support can make a real difference by helping Dan keep up with housing-related costs, daily necessities, and transportation needs as the rebuilding process progresses. Recurring donations would provide steady help through the months ahead, and one-time gifts are deeply appreciated as well.

I have known Dan since elementary school. Dan is the kind of person who would give the shirt off his back to help someone else. Even after the construction accident many years ago that left him paralyzed, Dan has maintained a positive attitude and sense of humor that is inspiring.

Dan has a strong work ethic, so asking for help is not something that comes easy for him, so I’m asking on his behalf. Whether he says it or not, I know this experience has been overwhelming. Please consider supporting Dan and his daughter in any way you can as they work toward stability and a return to normal life.