Stand by Julie in Her Health Struggle

My name is Cathy. I have known Julie for over 10 years now. Since the day I met her, she has always gone out of her way to help anyone who needed it. From helping her drivers with food, transportation and even a place to stay when they needed it. If she was able to help, she did.

Several years ago, her health started to decline. She has been getting weaker and weaker, and the doctors couldn't figure out why. On top of that, in 2000, she had a major health scare while working out of town. She was in the ICU for 2 weeks due to an aortic aneurysm. After a 3-4 week stay, she was released to go home.

Then, about a year ago, after still getting weaker, the doctors finally figured out what was going on. In late 2023, she was diagnosed with IBM (Inclusion Body Myositis). This disease is a progressive muscle disease characterized by inflammation, weakness, and muscle wasting. Because of this, she has to have someone with her at all times due to falls and the inability to even cook for herself anymore. On top of that, Julie has not left her house in several months because without a ramp it isn't safe for her to do so. They are struggling to pay their bills while trying to come up with the funds to put in a ramp, a safe shower, and a higher toilet.

She has been in her home since moving to Minnesota 11 years ago. Now, the landlord needs to sell the house due to her husband's failing health and she is giving Julie the opportunity to purchase it. If Julie is unable to purchase the home, she will have to move. She has looked for other options and there aren't any, so moving just is not a viable option for her. Julie has been approved for an FHA loan, but the house needs a few repairs to qualify. We are asking for funds to do repairs to the house and put in the things she needs to at least leave her home safely. Also, to help her come up with some sort of down payment to make it easier for her to buy the home.