Wayne grew up in Eagle Butte, SD. When Judy was a teenager, her family moved in next door to Wayne’s family. They quickly became smitten with one another, and they were married a few months after Judy turned 18. They raised two children while running a number of different businesses throughout the years, including a lumber yard, sand and gravel delivery, pouring concrete, a pet store, and finally owning their own quarry, making gravel, crushing rock, installing driveways, parking lots, digging basements, and hauling rock and gravel. They both worked very hard for over 50 years being self-employed. The quarry and home on the property were sold about 12 years ago to get out of debt.

At a point, Judy developed breast cancer, endured surgery and chemo and is a cancer survivor. As other cancer survivors are aware, your energy levels never really return to what they once were. Wayne’s health has become more complicated as he is losing his vision due to macular degeneration in both eyes. In addition to his increasing loss of vision, he fell a few feet almost a year ago and suffered several fractured vertebrae. He had reparative surgery on his back and somewhere along the way, more fractures were discovered along with osteoporosis. His prognosis is not favorable and he can barely walk.

They have been married for 58 years now! Theirs is a story of love, grit, commitment, and perseverance. Judy is 76 and Wayne is almost 80. Life has become very difficult for them. Recently, Judy fell and broke her hand. She is carrying most of the daily work and responsibilities for them as Wayne can’t do much due to mobility issues and chronic pain.

They have been using a car given to them by their daughter, but it recently overheated resulting in total engine failure. They cannot afford to fix it. Family cannot afford to provide another car for them right now as they are paying off medical bills.

They do not live close to family. They are getting help with food from the Feed South Dakota program. They are also receiving help with some of their expensive medications. Family has stepped in as able to help them financially, but both of their children and their families have recently suffered expensive medical issues as well. Wayne and Judy need help and we are asking on their behalf for your prayers and for financial support as well.

Their immediate need is for reliable transportation – preferably a 4-door car or maybe a minivan. Wayne has not been able to sit up in the car while traveling to and from his frequent medical appointments about 60 miles away. They are hoping to raise enough money to be able to repair the car with engine damage if possible, purchase an older but reliable vehicle, or if someone in western SD had a vehicle to donate to them, that could be considered as well.

Thank you so much for reading their story and for considering providing support for this couple in need. Your thoughtfulness is deeply appreciated!