Twelve years ago, Tom lost his wife, Stacey. Since then, he has carried on as a widowed father, raising and caring for their son, Micah, who is now 14 and has special needs.

Tom has always worked with his hands. As a contractor on Hatteras Island, he has spent years doing physically demanding work to provide for Micah and keep their family going.

Recently, everything changed.

Tom suffered a heart attack and underwent triple bypass surgery. He is now facing a long recovery from major heart surgery and is unable to do the physical work that has always been his livelihood.

The truth is, Tom was already struggling financially before his heart attack. Contractor work had become harder to secure, competition had increased, and there were no savings to fall back on. He is currently four payments behind on his mortgage and two months behind on his electric bill.

Now, with Tom unable to work, the situation has become urgent.

Our greatest concern is keeping a roof over Tom and Micah's heads, keeping their electricity on, and giving Tom the time his body needs to heal.

For 12 years, Tom has carried the responsibility of raising Micah without Stacey by his side. He has worked, provided, and done his best to keep moving forward.

Right now, Tom needs others to help carry him.

Funds raised will be used to help catch up on the mortgage, pay the overdue electric bill and essential household expenses, and provide basic living support while Tom recovers and works toward safely returning to work.

Our goal is simple: keep Tom and Micah in their home, keep the lights on, and give Tom the chance to heal.

If you can donate, no amount is too small. If you cannot donate, please share Tom and Micah's story. On Hatteras Island, we know how powerful it can be when a community comes together for one of its own.

Thank you for reading, sharing, praying, and helping Tom focus on healing and being there for Micah.