My name is Lisa, and I am reaching out because I am facing one of the hardest moments of my life. Just recently, the rental home I have lived in for the past two years burned down in a devastating fire. In an instant, I lost everything—my furniture, clothes, and all of my sentimental pictures. The most heartbreaking loss was a mama dog and her eleven 2-week-old puppies, who were inside when the fire started. I am completely devastated and struggling to process this tragedy.

I have no family in North Dakota who can help me through this. On top of this loss, I already deal with ongoing health problems that keep me in constant pain, and I am currently waiting to have surgery on my feet, which makes walking very difficult. Thankfully, my landlord was able to provide me with another rental to stay in, but I am starting over with nothing. The fire started in the fan above the oven, and while I know it wasn’t my fault, the guilt and grief are overwhelming. My last dog survived only because he was with me when I went to the store—I would do anything to go back and save the others.

I do not like to ask for help, but I have no choice right now. If you cannot donate, please say a prayer for me and my last dog as we try to rebuild our lives. Every dollar helps, and your support—whether through a donation or a kind word—means more than I can say. Thank you for reading my story and for any help you can give.