Katie Maddox and I met on the school bus when we were just kids, and our friendship has grown stronger over the years. In the past four years, she has been my rock—babysitting for me, helping with housework, joining my family gatherings, cooking together, and even helping me renovate my house for months on end. Katie is the dearest friend I could ever ask for, always giving her time and energy to help me and my family, never asking for anything in return.

Katie is the kind of person who is always willing to help others, no matter what she’s going through herself. She would give the clothing off her back if someone needed it, and she never hesitates to step up for friends, family, or even strangers in need.

Recently, Katie’s life took a difficult turn. She lost her car in an accident caused by another driver, but because of issues with the police report, her insurance didn’t reimburse her. Without reliable transportation, she lost her job. My husband's nana sold Katie a car at a very reasonable price, but unfortunately it broke down, and she lost her job again. Now, Katie is pregnant and facing urgent financial challenges, with no car, no job, and needing her own place as she prepares for her baby’s arrival.

As if things weren’t hard enough, just last week Katie’s sweet dog, Cujo, got out of her parents’ yard and was attacked and killed by three other dogs. This loss has been heartbreaking for her on top of everything else she’s facing.

I am hoping this fundraiser will help Katie get a reliable car, which is her most urgent need right now. Anything raised beyond that will go toward helping her secure housing and baby essentials. Katie has always been there for me, and now I want to be there for her. Please consider supporting this fundraiser to help Katie get back on her feet, find stable work, and have her own place to live before her baby arrives.