Hello, my name is Laura Burger and I wanted to show support and reach out to family, friends, and people who are drawn to assist this most wonderful man recover from a traumatizing loss of his home due to a devastating fire destroying everything. Marcus is the most loving, empathetic, and just outright good egg that you could ever meet in life. He rented this home for the past 9 years, raising 3 of his 4 kids as a single father in this home, and there were a lot of great memories lost so quickly.

The whole house is covered in fire damage.

He'll help anyone in need and he's a person that will put others first before himself. I love this man for all that he is and has been to me personally in my life. He's a dedicated father with four kids and seven grandchildren. He's an amazing artist who gives support and contributions to his community with public murals and workshops for kids to inspire their own creativity and growth. He works in the custodial department for the Cedar Rapids Community School District and all the grade school kids love his art and call him Mr. Marcus.

I admire his will to be a person who engages in life in general. He's a prideful person who will not or should I say it's extremely difficult for him to accept help from others. On Monday, August 12th in the late evening, him, his son, and 17-month-old granddaughter were displaced from their home due to this devastating house fire. Marcus's 14-year-old family pet Morkie named Marley had to be resuscitated due to smoke inhalation and spend the night fighting for his life in the Blue Moon ER. I have to say Marley is a fighter and the toughest little guy I've ever seen. He also survived a vicious attack from a stray pit that came within a micrometer of tearing his jugular six years ago. Marley will need treatments as a follow-up to recover healthy and happy. His son and granddaughter were in the house and got out safely along with two kitties as well.

I would like to humbly ask for your help today, and to reach the financial goal of $9700 to help Marcus, his son, and granddaughter recover from this sudden displacement and re-establish home because they lost everything that was in the house. All clothes, furniture, equipment, two of his amazing paintings, prints, and art supplies. Also important documents. I'm so grateful for Marcus, his family and Love Them. I'm thankful that everyone is safe. Thank you so much for reading this fundraiser and let's reach our goal to bless Marcus and family with our love and support because he truly blesses others. Please share this with family and friends. Any amount is appreciated and God Bless you and your Families.

Sincerely,

Laura Burger