LET FIRE WITHIN OUTSHINE THE ONE THAT BURNED

Hello, my name is Wendi Gale, a local social worker and garden designer. I am assisting in raising funds for a hardworking and kindhearted couple, Melonie Bradshaw + Nathan Bowen (henceforth M+N). Both M&N worked with me for several years and were instrumental in the opening of Deep Roots Center for Biocultural Restoration. Melonie now works as Manager of a Floral Drepartment at Harris Teeter N. Pointe Dr Durham, and Nathan works as a Master of Hardscape and Plant Landscaper for Garden Environments of Durham. Both Melonie and Nathan continue to offer probono services to NGOs of the area including Indigenous Memories and Ribbons of Color.

Last night when sitting by a bonfire, a hollow log spit out a 'fire bomb' that resulted in awful second and third degree burns on Melonie's feet and legs; and of the legs of her son Zachary. If you have experienced or read anything about burns you already knoi that acute stress disorder occurs in the first month, and post-traumatic stress disorder occurs after one month; they are are far more common after burns than other forms of injury.

I am assisting M+N to raise funds so that their focus is on healing; to diminish worries about the future, difficulties in returning to work, and the financial burden of medical costs and other effects of the fire trauma. With only Medicaid for Insurance and Melonie unable to return to work, the funds will be used for the following supports:

1. Transportation for physical and psychosocial appointments for Melonie, Zachary, and all family members.

2. Extensive medical supplies required for frequent bandage changes, prevention of high incidence of infection, and prescriptive medicines.

3. Devices required to assist Melonie in accomplishing basic life skills & proper hygeine and care, until she begins healing and can walk again.

4. Hired help to care for young teen and two grandchildren in M+N's care.

5. Housecleaning services.

6. Bills & Groceries

Thanks in advance for supporting my efforts. I couldn't do this without generous friends like you. Melonie and Nathan are grateful to live and work where community comes together to support each other. They are on a needier side right now, but we will soon again beneifit from their giving hearts. Please let's help Melonie, Zachary and family LET THEIR INNER FIRES OUTSHINE THE ONE THAT BURNED THEM.

with gratitude, wendi