Stand By Michelle

We would like to ask the assistance of friends, NIU / Gilbert Hall Alumni and family to help a friend in need, Michelle Reitman.  Michelle is from the NIU class of 1991 and has been a dear friend ever since we met her in 1988 at Gilbert Hall.  Facing career challenges, which isn’t hard to imagine in the state of Illinois, Michelle works as a substitute teacher during the school year and is also a freelance photographer and tries to pick up any other part-time jobs she can to make ends meet. 

Michelle also lives with and assists her older sister Faith, who like Michelle, has experienced many career obstacles.  The obstacles became even greater when Faith lost her sight and over the past 2 years she has been struggling with serious health issues that result from her diabetes.

This past Wednesday Michelle’s old car finally gasped its last breath.  Repair costs would be exorbitant and definitely are more than the car’s worth.  Unfortunately Michelle is in no position to afford even a cheap used car.  But we wouldn’t want her to get the bottom of the barrel and be back in the same situation where she has constant breakdowns and needs repair.  These ladies need transportation for work and doctor/therapy appointments.

Barb & I are willing to help Michelle with the financing and monthly payments for a new used vehicle that will accommodate them and Faith’s wheelchair.  What we would like to ask all of you is for any donation you can make toward the down payment on the new vehicle to help reduce the monthly payments to make them manageable for us and Michelle.  (Please remember Barb & I have 2 kids in college.)  If a lot of people can make small, manageable donations it all adds up!  And if you are unable to make a donation please keep Michelle and Faith in your prayers.

Thanks so much for your time!  Please share this with other friends and alumni!