This past July, Tonya Arnold, mother of 2 daughters and English teacher at Haughton High School, was diagnosed with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). After taking some time to process this unexpected information, we have now begun to prepare for what Tonya's new normal might look like. Since she is still currently teaching high school, we want to do everything we can to help her in her daily life. As she looks down the road and into her future the list of needs appears endless.

She is currently meeting with contractors, medical staff and therapists to define what this new reality will look like, and we are trying to raise as much money as possible to help with the mounting expenses. She will need a complete home remodel for full handicap accessibility, handicapped accessible transportation, medical costs beyond what insurance will cover and money to offset a pay decrease when she is forced medically to step out of her classroom.

There have been countless students flow in and out of Mrs. Arnold’s classroom. She’s poured into and helped so many of the kids in our community and now she needs our help. Tonya’s intention is to make it to her 30 year retirement in 2027, and everyone at HHS is set on doing everything we can to enable her influence to remain on the students and faculty as long as possible. Financial help would allow her to stress less, live more and keep showing up with the smile and sense of humor we have all grown to adore. Tonya made the comment recently that “I know God’s got me” and there is no question He does. Now we are asking that her community show up for her too!

If you have the ability or feel inclined to give, any amount helps.