Help Joe, Diane, and Trinity Rebuild Their Lives

A Cancer diagnosis…then Helene…and now, a Fire…

Wendy and I are writing on behalf of a dear friend and his family. If ever there was a perfect storm, it has surely arrived at Joe, Diane and Trinity Poland’s doorstep. We are, beyond words, heartbroken for them.

Just days before Hurricane Helene devasted the Asheville area, Joe’s wife, Diane, was taken to Mission Hospital emergency with severe back pain. The next day, the family was given the devasting news - a large cancerous tumor was growing on her spine, that has spread to her bones. Reeling from the severity of this diagnosis, and on the cusp of just starting an initial treatment regimen, Helene blew in, and hospital services were severely curtailed.

Thankfully, they were spared any significant damages from the hurricane. But, at the same time, they spent a harrowing week, scrambling to find a way to reconnect with Mission’s drastically reduced hospital services.

And, then, just as they were finally getting Diane reestablished with treatment, they returned home to witness their home in flames. Within less than an hour’s time, they lost everything.

One can only imagine the upending swirl of chaos they have been thrown into. Their own personal hurricane.

https://youtu.be/C6gSN9mhH0U

And, yet, through all of this, Joe, has continued to offer his hands and heart, along with his innumerable trades skills, to others who are also in need in the aftermath of Helene. This is no surprise, as many would attest, and it is certainly how Wendy and I have come to know him over many years.

Both Joe and Diane work to support their family. Trinity is an all-star athlete, now wondering if her dreams to play college sports are dashed. Joe is a handyman, and Diane does house cleaning. While both of their incomes are essential, it is unclear, given Diane’s diagnosis, how long or how much she will be able to work, or the extent of her medical bills.

And in the midst of all this, they must somehow find another home and rebuild their life from scratch.

And, so, dear friends, neighbors, colleagues, anyone and everyone, wherever you may be, we are reaching out to request your support, however that may resonate for you, in helping this dear family navigate this unimaginably challenging time.

Thank you, so very, very much!

Arms around us All,

Michael & Wendy Arbuckle

Asheville, North Carolina