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Help Helen Through Her Medical & Financial Hardship

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Our dear neighbor, Helen O’Neill—fondly known in our family as "Ms. Helen" or our "mountain grandma"—has always been the first to lend a helping hand. Now, she needs ours.

We met Helen during the aftermath of a major winter storm, shoveling six feet of snow from our driveway in the dark. Without hesitation, she pulled on her boots, grabbed a shovel, and joined us. That’s just who she is—strong and always showing up for others.

But now, Helen is facing an immense challenge—one that no one should have to go through alone.

A Devastating Health Crisis
Helen has always pushed through challenges, including a horrific rollover accident 25 years ago after being hit by a semi-truck, which left her with many bones that had to be replaced. But this past December, she was hit with crippling back pain, leading to a whirlwind of medical crises:

  • Months of hospital stays, tests, and rehab
  • Severe arthritis and fluid in her spinal column
  • Back surgery and a dangerous blood infection
  • Antibiotic infusions, heart tests, and an MRI
  • Ongoing rehabilitation with at least four more weeks to go

A Crushing Financial Burden
As if her health struggles weren’t enough, Helen is also the victim of elder abuse. Her only income is rental income, but one of her tenants—now a squatter—hasn’t paid rent since 2021 and has destroyed her home. She faces an expensive legal battle to regain and rehabilitate her property, while another tenant at a different property has also stopped paying rent.

The combination of mounting medical bills, lost income, and legal fees has left Helen in a dire financial situation.

How You Can Help
Helen has spent her life giving to others—now it’s our turn. Every dollar donated will go toward her medical bills, rehabilitation, and legal costs as she fights to recover her health and home. No amount is too small, and every bit of support means the world to her.

Please consider donating or sharing this fundraiser. Let’s show Helen the kindness she’s shown to those around her.
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    Organizer

    Brittany Shafferman
    Organizer
    Desert Hot Springs, CA

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