I am coming to you with a heavy heart during this most joyous time of the year. As many of you might already know, our good friend and my sister from another mister, Sandy Patterson-Jamarck had a fire at her mobile home Sunday afternoon. Sandy’s kitchen caught on fire, and it is a total loss. Thankfully (Thank you, Lord), her four kitties (Miss Kitty, Socks, Grey Ghost, and Runty) and little Tanca Dog were all huddled in the middle bedroom and survived but they all had to be hospitalized as they were suffering from respiratory issues from excessive smoke inhalation. Dakota, the younger puppy seemed to be fine and is staying with Ms. Susie. The animals had to be taken to the Blue Pearl Emergency Veterinarian in Monterey as there were no services available on a Sunday in San Benito County. The animals had to be on oxygen and IV drips overnight. The kitties have come home, but Tanca is still hospitalized as her lungs are still weak from the soot. We currently do not know what the next step will be with the insurance company. The Red Cross has provided Sandy with a $500 prepaid credit card and some nice woman at the veterinarian’s office donated a bag of dog food. All the food Sandy had for her animals was of course destroyed. Sandy is currently staying with a friend on property to be close to home and keep a watchful eye on things. Everything in Sandy’s house has been damaged by either smoke or water. The $500 from the Red Cross will help with buying pet food and incidentals she needs to get by for the next few days. We all know that our friend/sister Sandy has been there for so many of us in times of need. She has helped me when I needed transportation to the Bay Area for medical treatments, she has volunteered at Our Father’s House/Food Angels, her and her late husband (God Bless Mr. Dale) volunteered at the Food Angels distribution on Line Street, passing out boxes of groceries to needy families during the holidays and more. Speaking of Mr. Dale – Sandy was the most patient and loving wife/companion/caregiver providing her husband with outstanding care never leaving his side. Sandy has helped people with their animals always available to lend her expertise and assistance when needed; no matter what she had to do or how far she had to go! Now, I am asking for her friends and neighbors to please help Sandy in her time of need. The veterinarian bill is currently at $16,000 and Tanca Dog must stay one more night. It is not known just yet what Sandy’s insurance deductible will be, but these expenses mentioned plus anything not yet considered will be a financial hardship for Sandy on a fixed income. I am asking that you please consider helping our friend and sister with whatever you can during this difficult time. Any amount would be a Blessing!

Thank you so much for your consideration!!

God Bless!!

Nina