Stan has been a cherished friend to my family for over 25 years. He’s a U.S. Army veteran who was gravely wounded in Vietnam, leaving his left arm permanently disabled, and with cognitive difficulties. Despite these challenges, Stan has always been a man of service and compassion. He became a Shriner’s clown years ago to support the Shriner’s Hospital, dressing up and blowing balloons for donations alongside his wife. He was always a hit in the local 4th of July parade, riding with his tiny horse and cart—especially because he was such a big clown! Stan spent years going to yard sales to pick up discarded medical equipment like crutches, wheelchairs, and adaptive equipment to donate to the Shriner’s Hospital. He also collected handmade stuffed animals to give to hospitalized children.

Stan’s generosity didn’t stop there. He volunteered as a stand-in Santa at nursing homes, raised money for the Shriners Hospital, and served as a mentor and leader for youth organizations like Demolay and Job’s Daughters. Stan has cooked for countless fundraisers, decorated parade floats, and shared his love of pigeons with elementary school students across our area. He’s quick to help anyone in need—friends, family, or even strangers on the side of the road. A few years ago, he saved a young girl’s life after a terrible accident near his home, holding pressure on her throat until EMTs arrived.

Stan’s life has not been easy. After returning from Vietnam, he struggled to find work and battled alcoholism, but he’s been sober since 1997. He and his wife, Marlene, who passed away unexpectedly just a month ago, have faced many hardships, including caring for their adult disabled son, who tragically died in a car accident last year. It was only after his son’s passing that Stan discovered a severe bedbug infestation in their home. The congregation of a local LDS ward has stepped in to help, working alongside Stan to prepare his house for bedbug eradication. Despite this generous support, Stan still faces significant costs to complete the process and resolve the debt that threatens his home.

Stan has always given so much to others, and now he needs our help. The funds raised will go directly toward saving his house and eradicating the bedbug infestation, which will improve his health and allow those who care about him to support him at home. Any support you can give will make a real difference in Stan’s life and help him through this incredibly difficult time.