Help the Hooties!
For those who know Meanie Hooten, the thought of her and her twin boys, Carter and Gabe brings an instant smile to your face.
Melanie has the most gracious, kind and loving heart. She is quick to drop everything and come to your side, even when silently facing her own challenges. She has given to the community by following in her dad Herman’s footsteps through her previous job at the Office of Diversity and Inclusion at the University of Utah Medical School. She has encouraged young minds to find passion in Science by making it fun and interesting through outreach programs in elementary and middle schools. She is the “Snow Cone Queen” at Partners in the Park events, and is a strong force for the rights of the underprivileged and minorities.
Perhaps you know Melanie from the first day of Kindergarten and have a lifelong friendship, or as a diehard Judge Memorial Bulldogs football fan. Perhaps it is through her beautiful handmade pottery or from seeing her while walking the University of Utah campus and halls where she never fails to offer a hello or a supportive hug.
Her little family needs us. Melanie’s son Gabe was born with Hydrocephalus. He has overcome tremendous odds with the perseverance and faith of his mama these past 12 years. Being a parent of a medically fragile child already comes with its own challenges, both financially and emotionally. Melanie is a single mom of two active and adventurous boys. For over 15 years she worked in the Office of Diversity and Inclusion but before COVID her position was “no longer deemed as a necessary role” and Melanie had to accept a sizable pay-cut in a different position in order to maintain health insurance for her and her boys.
A few weeks ago Gabe was admitted to the ICU because the shunt in his brain to drain fluid had been blocked. He required 2 emergency surgeries one on his brain and the other his abdomen which then resulted in pulmonary edema and he now needs an inhaler in addition to his other medical concerns moving forward. Shortly after, Melanie’s mom (Kathy) who helps with care while Melanie works, fell and broke her hip.The medical bills, time from work and decrease in pay are causing undue stress on Melanie as she focuses on Carter being in school and Gabe regaining his health. It has been a long 18 months for our friend.
It is our turn to give back to one who is always giving. Please help in any way you can.
From the bottom of our hearts...we thank you.
