Deirdre risked her life to save others during a devastating fire, and now she needs help to rebuild after losing her home and facing ongoing health struggles.

The past six months have been some of the hardest of my life. In the fire, I lost my apartment and precious belongings—items from my mother and grandmother, my pets, and years of artwork that meant so much to me. On top of this, I’ve faced covid, RSV, back surgery, lupus, and another surgery that left me without teeth, making daily life even more challenging.

Now, I’m living in the city, where everything is more expensive than it was in the small town I called home. My rent and utility bills are higher, and I need help with basic essentials for my apartment, food, women’s clothing, and especially transportation. Without a car, I have to rely on Uber or Lyft just to get around. Covering rent and utility bills has become a struggle, and I’m doing my best to keep going despite these challenges.

Despite everything, I haven’t lost faith in God or the support of friends like Miss Pat, Jim Presley, Mama Linda, Naomi, and others. Their love and kindness have helped me realize I’m not alone, even in the darkest moments. My mother always taught me to face poverty with dignity, and I am doing my best to hold onto hope and faith for better days ahead.

I am reaching out because I still desperately need help. Your support—whether through a donation or by sharing my story—means everything to me. Any amount you can give will help me recover, replace what I’ve lost, and move forward. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for your love, support, and generosity.