Hi, I really didn't want to do a fund raiser because Firstly I don't like asking for help, and secondly because we moved to the family farm to help out not be a burden! However I have been looking for work for 11 months after leaving my government position (I didn't really want to, but I knew I would be RIF'd). Our savings are used up, even my retirement is used up. My husband was transferred to Cleveland Clinic due to his heart after being in a local hospital for a week. He actually spent an entire month hospitalized with cardiac failure. He is home now, but still in cardiac failure and we are waiting to get him into a clinical trial. I have another family member whom we live with up here who has been diagnosed with cancer and is receiving treatment. Last but not least my grandfather (adopted) has been diagnosed with early stages of Alzheimer’s. i am super busy tryong to take care of all of them, plus my 3 disabled kids all while looking for a job. I wish Inhad a clone, or help or something. Getting everyone to their appointments is costly, and we really need the finances of me working, but at the same time I have 6 people to care for, take to appointments, and help.

Anyway, we have been barely scratching by with all of this and no relief in sight. I can't afford my car payment or any of the other bills that are stacking up, let alone go up to Cleveland clinic to take my husband back for checkups and management.

I hate hate hate having to do this!!! I am embarrassed to have to do this. I worked so hard to make better life for my family but it all went down hill when we (Federal Positons) received the Fork In The Road notice and shortly there after RIF (reduction in force) notices went out.

We need help. And of course, it is also comming up on Christmas, so I told the kids there won't be much under the tree this year, but we will do our best.

I know times are really tough right now, I would have set the goal higher, but things are so hard right now. So if you can find it in heart and wallet to help our family, it would be very much appreciated.

FYI any donations will go towards getting my husband in Cleveland, paying bills, gas for medical visits and getting food on the table. Oh, and snow boots for the kids.

Mel