“First, I would like to thank you for taking the time to read this and your dedication to helping others who are in need. We all come across hardships from time to time and your empathy and blessings are truly appreciated!”
-Sharon and Eli
Sharon Cooper and her husband Eli Barry, along with their six children, need urgent help. Despite working tirelessly, they are struggling under the weight of medical and lingering financial burdens caused by a crippling car accident and being displaced for the past 3 years.
On June 17th of 2022, Sharon was driving with all six of her children in their family van when they were struck by another car that had crossed the center divider, totaling the van. The children came out with small injuries, but Sharon sustained a serious cervical spinal fracture. Despite this, she has worked two jobs—night shifts at Sierra Memorial Hospital and Golden Empire Rehabilitation Center as a Certified Nurse’s Assistant—while enduring constant pain. She finally arranged for the surgery she desperately needs, scheduled for February 25, 2025.
Originally, Sharon’s brother Daniel planned to help with the kids during her recovery, allowing Eli to keep working. Tragically, just before Thanksgiving, Daniel was killed in a car accident. His sudden loss has devastated the family and derailed their carefully laid plans.
Now, Sharon is unable to work leading up to surgery (receiving disability at a much lower rate of pay); her husband works full time as a Team Lead at Target, but it is still not enough to cover expenses. The family was also displaced on October 27th 2022 due to landlords not wanting to rent to a family with 6 children. They had to utilize credit to supplement income while living in hotels and Air B&Bs. They finally secured a rental home in June of 2024, but the experience left them in a financial hole.
This family has endured homelessness, personal injury and tragedy. They are so close to being back right, but all resources have been exhausted. We have secured them a replacement car for the totaled van, but the family needs financial support to cover essential expenses over the next three months.
Your donation will go toward:
- Medical expenses for Sharon’s surgery and recovery
- Childcare and household support while she heals
- Daily living expenses (rent, food, utilities, gas, insurance, debt payments)
- The final semester of Sharon’s Associate’s Degree
Sharon and her family never wanted to ask for help, but they’ve reached a breaking point. Their goal is $13,000 to cover three months of expenses. If exceeded, extra funds will go toward Daniel’s burial expenses and memorial.
Every bit of help counts. If you can't donate, please share this campaign. Your support is much appreciated in this time of need.
With gratitude, Shiree Barry-Swenson & Myfanwy Johnston