“It takes a long time to grow an old friend”.

I met Mark Wagner in kindergarten at Jackson Wilson Elementary. It was a SMALL school, small classrooms, mostly all “tree street” kids. Mark and I just celebrated a 37 year class reunion last year. To say we have been friends a long time is an understatement.

Fast forward to June 2023. Mark’s oldest son, Chris, met his untimely death while he was law enforcement on duty in Wintergreen VA. A life taken all too soon. Mark has been disabled for over 10 years and has other younger children as well; two of whom require more love and patience than most of us do. Living solely on SSI, and Chris’ death benefits ended almost as soon as they began, the family is now faced with a hardship. Trying to make ends meet, keeping their home that holds so many memories and supporting a family is no small task when you are still struggling with your son’s death. Worrying about losing a home, feeding hungry children, and maintaining day to day living expenses are ongoing challenges for Mark. Family & friends have stepped in when they could. That’s where I come in…Mark and his family have been my neighbors, friends, one of the “tree street kids” my entire life. When I found out there was a need…I decided to lean on my other friends and ask for help.

Any amount is appreciated and will go directly into Mark’s account. If you are unable to donate, we ask that you share Mark’s story in the hopes that someone reading it can lend a hand.

Thank you in advance for taking time to read this and help in any way you can. You are appreciated.

“Helping one person might not change the world, but it could change the world for one person.”