On the night of December 4th, the Thomas Fire destroyed the Hawaiian Village apartments (photo below) in Ventura, CA where my Grandpa Jack has lived for the last 5 years. The fire moved so quickly, he had no time to pack anything and left with the clothes on his back. Everything is a total loss and, at the age of 72, he has to start over from scratch. While we are so grateful for his safety and that of our neighbors, this is going to be a uphill battle. 


My grandpa is an amazing man who would go out of his way to help anyone. For two years, I lived with him while finishing school and preparing to go to medical school (where I am now in Iowa City). He never asked anything of me, only that I would finish school and follow my dream. We are best buds who spent countless days watching golf, telling stories, and cooking up feasts in that apartment. 

He is now staying with family about 40 minutes away from home, but must now commute nearly an hour and a half to work. Finances are tight and, as it is, he sometimes works up to 6 days a week. This guy is a fighter and it breaks my heart to see him have to fight so hard.

I would like to raise enough money so that he can replenish his clothes, medications, computer, and secure a new place to live (which is hard to do in Southern CA). He will be spending Christmas with our family in Visalia where we hope to give him everything raised as a very merry surprise!

Donations of any amount are so greatly appreciated and I will do my best to pay it forward!