Join my Journey: Restoring my Home

Dear Friends,

I hope this message finds you well. I’m Marva Berry, and I'm reaching out with some hesitancy, as I’ve never done anything like this before. However, I'm also filled with hope and urgency as I share my personal journey and seek your support during this difficult time.

A Home Filled with Memories:

My home, a duplex built in 1910, has always been more than just a place to live; its where cherished memories were made, laughter echoed the halls, and dreams took shape. From the creaky floorboards to the cozy corners, each nook holds a story. It's the first home I knew as a child with my paternal grandparents living right next door.

Inspired to restore the family home after years of vacancy, I embarked on a journey to revitalize it with my own hands, transforming it into a personal haven of warmth and comfort. Throughout my home, I sanded/refinished original hardwood floors, repaired plaster walls, installed new floor/wall tile; designed the kitchen layout and installed cabinetry with my dad’s help and expertise. Outsourced work included electrical, plumbing, mechanicals, roofing and gutters. I eagerly anticipated the gatherings to come after the finishing brushstrokes of paint prepared the space for a new future—my future!

Facing Unforeseen Challenges: Extensive Water Damage

Fast forward, the warmth of those memories was overshadowed by unforeseen challenges. Extensive water damage caused by a sudden and accidental occurrence of a 2nd floor toilet overflowing from the tank, casting a dark shadow over the very foundation of my home. This incident unraveled years of hard work and stole cherished memories. Despite the expected safety net of insurance, navigating the complexities of policy administration, multiple adjusters and conflicting directives leaves me uncertain about the extent of coverage for the requisite repairs and the very future existence of my home.

What makes this even more difficult is the one characteristic I’ve enjoyed the most: its historic nature, having been constructed in 1910, necessitates further updates to certain repairs due to current building codes. For instance, the requirement to replace rather than repair knob-n-tub wiring after demolition exposure. More importantly, the reverberating assurances from adjusters’ words that my home would be restored to its previous state haven’t been fulfilled. Consequently, my home sits idle, with the interior partially demolished. I’m hoping to settle insurance coverages while seeking alternate funding to restore not only my home but my very life in the process.

Facing Unforeseen Challenges: Coverage & Costs

Moreover, the lack of compensation for the extensive volume of discarded possessions and content deemed non-salvageable adds insult to injury. The documented inventory of these non-salvageable items spans nearly 500 pages, encompassing treasured keepsakes, clothing, cookware, dishes, tools, Christmas decorations, furniture and more. As time passes, the costs continue to escalate due to the ongoing delay in the restoration project. Salvageable content was cleaned, restored and placed in storage, incurring current estimated costs of $35,000.

Despite my unwavering determination to reach the best possible resolution with the insurance company, it’s become increasingly evident the true costs of home restoration and reimbursement for lost possessions may not be realized. The required repairs are substantial, impacting multiple rooms and levels—1st floor, 2nd floor, and basement. These areas essentially mirror the initial rehabilitation work I undertook years ago.

To date, I’m unable to move forward with the project until a solution is found to address code-compliant electrical and plumbing work, estimated at $16,500. The basement, which housed all mechanicals and was the final area affected by water, requires repair and replacement of furnaces, water heaters, and condensation pumps, estimated at $22,000. Additionally, replacing a fallen support pillar for a primary beam, including building a concrete platform is estimated at $5,000. Other costs included in the total campaign amount cover rebuilding an adjoining wall between the kitchen and storage room, reconstructing the wooden load-bearing door-in-the-floor leading to the basement, and replacing vintage interior doors and handles, as well as appliances and replacement for some lost possessions.

Refusal to Give Up:

The year of the water damage marked the culmination of a season in which I began to feel a sense of renewal. Having spent several years as a full-time caregiver to a loved one, I was unaware of the impending perfect storm of adversity. The damage and uncertainty surrounding the repairs to my home was compounded by the emotional toll from the loss of my loved one.

Amidst these challenges, hope shines through. Though the road ahead may seem daunting, I refuse to succumb or let setbacks dictate the course of my future. I choose to see this as an opportunity for transformation and growth. I envision my home not as it currently stands, but as it will be once it’s restored to its former glory. I hear laughter echoing through the halls once again, and cherished memories being made anew. With every obstacle encountered, I am reminded of the determination that brought me this far, and it fuels my resolve to press on. I refuse to give up due to my belief in the power of perseverance and the promise of brighter & better days ahead.

How You Can Make a Difference:

Your generosity and support, both financial and emotional, are invaluable in helping me navigate these turbulent times. While the requested amount may seem considerable, it bridges the gap between what I’ve received from insurance and the current need. In my real-world circumstances, this funding will be the difference between restoring my home and losing it altogether. Whether through a donation of any amount or by sharing my story, you play a pivotal role in aiding the much-needed repairs to save and restore my home.

My Stewardship:

I pledge to be a responsible steward over funds received. To foster transparency, I will provide periodic updates on the restoration process, including any major cost adjustments and progress pictures, especially once all renovations are complete. While I do not expect any remaining funds after project completion, if for any reason there are residual funds, they will be used for home repair purposes to further stabilize my circumstances.

Closing Thoughts:

Standing at this crossroads, I am keenly aware that everyone carries their own story. The outpouring of support from family, friends and strangers truly humbles me. Your compassion gives me strength and hope amidst adversity. From the depths of my heart, I extend my sincerest gratitude for consideration and being a beacon of light in my time of greatest need.

Please feel free to share my story with your family and friends, knowing that your support will forever be cherished.

With heartfelt gratitude,

Marva Berry

Indianapolis, Indiana