You all know the story by now, I'm sure, but if not, you can read it on my blog at Frontline Taos Blog

I am an honorably discharged and decorated USAF Intelligence Veteran that was managing a 20-acre lodge and cabins in Angostura, NM when the US Forest Service started a controlled burn and lost control of it, and it turned into the largest fire in the state's history that burned over 340 square miles.

I was mandatory evacuated from the property on May 11, 2022 and became homeless and dislocated until March 1st 2025 when I rented the tiny home pictured here with the assistance of a HUD VASH housing voucher and Goodwill of New Mexico's initiative for homeless veterans.

It's not much but it's basic shelter and has kitchen and bath that I haven't had in over 2 years.

In February 2023 I suffered a pulmonary embolism that resulted in permanent damage to my right lung and permanent loss of lung capacity and I learned that this is one of the major disabilities of people around such forest fire.

I have filed a claim with FEMA through legal representation but the wheels turn slow and living offgrid on the open range proved to be too harsh for me and I found myself in the ICU over the holidays with dehydration, complete respiratory failure, Influenza Type A, double pneumonia and kidney damage and was down to 117lbs. I was told It was time go be placed into hospice and get my affairs in order. The amount of red tape involved just to get BASIC living needs has been overwhelming even with two dedicated case workers assisting.

I'm not one to give up any fight and I have spent the past two months building my body back up on a 4000 calorie per day diet and daily walks and I'm much stronger and Ive gotten back out of bed and have been self advocating and am now no longer homeless and just need a last little push over the top to get stable once again.

I have not even been reimbursed for my living expenses while evacuated or smoke damage let alone lost business revenue, as well as non-economic damages for my lung damage or PTSD/Stress of being homeless now for two years. I've had to rehome my dog, live exposed to the elements in a harsh environment with ongoing health issues and drain my six figure savings account down to $0

I also was forced to activate my social security retirement benefits early, before full retirement age at less than full benefit amount just to survive. My Fico score went from 647 down to 350 so I can't get a loan for a cup of coffee. UPDATE I now have it up to 611 and climbing!

I am a proud man and not one to ask for or accept charitable contributions and I've managed to pull myself almost out of this hole without a penny yet from FEMA and I believe I am close to getting a settlement offer and once that comes and I accept it in without modification they won't send payment for another 180 days or longer. Update: My attorney met with FEMA on Nov 25th 2025 regarding my specific case and my claim got pushed back until all the claims within the primary burn area are processed which could be years.

I am currently almost one month late on my rent and have electric bill due. My 1991 Ford Explorer which has been out of commission for 2 years is now running but needs some parts and maintenance items done such as four new tires, struts and exhaust. Any and all donations will be greatly appreciated and, as is my way, paid to forward. This little home is a blessing and I have nothing but some trash bags of clothes and a mattress on the floor.

Much love and gratitude to you all!