Kim Miller is one of the strongest people I have ever met. She raised me to be independent, courageous, strong-willed, and determined. She stepped into my life when my own father wouldn't, raising me like her own child until I made it into the Marine Corps. Even after raising me, I watched her help my mom achieve her goals in life with school and her career. Along the way, she continued to raise her nieces and nephews. When my grandmother was diagnosed with lung cancer, Kim quit her job and moved across the country to help be her caretaker. She cared for my grandmother until her last breath. While my grandma lost her fight with cancer, my grandfather developed dementia. Kim never thought twice about allowing my grandfather to live the rest of his life in her home and care. When I decided to start a tree business knowing absolutely nothing about trees, she wholeheartedly invested in my first set of climbing gear and helped me study my skills. She would watch me practice in the backyard, encouraging me to get over my fears of being a new climber. During this time, she used her free time to mentor the youth through teaching and her church. She has always helped someone in need, she has given away an entire car so someone could get to work every day for their family. She has always loaned money to the needy or someone down on their luck, never thinking about being repaid. Through my entire 34 years on this earth, I have never seen her ask for help. She has always made do with what she has and can do.

Five months ago, our family was devastated to find out Kim was diagnosed with breast cancer. Unfortunately, the same ailment affects many families throughout this country, but the impact has destroyed my parent’s lives. Kim went from working full time as a teacher, and maintaining her yard and garden, to requiring full-time care while she takes her treatment. My mother Sharon has had to quit her job as well just to stay at home and care for Kim full time. Their grocery bill has increased simply due to the new diet and medicine requirements.

Unfortunately, we have to fight with the insurance company just to cover the minimum care. I am helping them with living expenses as much as I possibly can but unfortunately my income is limited. As a disabled veteran, I am asking for help. If anyone could donate, it would be appreciated. Anything donated will go directly to Kim’s cancer fund so my parents are able to survive without adding to their struggle.

Thank you to anyone willing to help!