Unemployment, medical problems alter plans
This couple had high hopes for their future together, but unemployment and medical problems quickly turned their dreams into a nightmare.
The wife said they married a little over a year ago. It is a second marriage for each.
"You know, we both went through bad marriages and nasty divorces. I didn't think I would ever fall in love again or find a guy who would care so much for me, and my children," the wife said.
Things started to go bad when the husband was laid off from a job right after last Christmas, and he hasn't been able to find another job that pays as well.
Last March, the wife and mother of two teens had to stop working when she developed a serious heart problem and needed emergency surgery.
"I've had a few complications, been back to the hospital in Spokane a couple times," she said.
Her husband's pay barely covers their rent. The wife said she fears the family will lose their home if something doesn't change. She said she doesn't want to go on disability, but she has applied for it because they need it.
"I want to go back to work, but my blood pressure is unstable, and I get short of breath and dizzy sometimes," the wife said.
Despite the troubles, the marriage is still strong, she said.
"Things are very bad here, but you know, we're doing our best to keep God in our hearts, and keep our spirits up."
With our readers' assistance, Press Christmas for All works to brighten the holidays for people like this - the jobless, homeless, those who are barely making ends meet, individuals with disabilities or illnesses. Many are alone this holiday season.
Each year, our generous readers' donations allow us to assist thousands of Kootenai County families in need. Each day until Christmas, we will share the stories of those whose holiday memories will be a little happier because of Press Christmas for All.
Donations are collected, then distributed in the form of gift cards to Kootenai County residents in need.
Press Christmas for All is a holiday charity now in its 29th year. It is managed as a nonprofit by The Hagadone Corp. Because it is run by volunteers from The Hagadone Corp. and their partners at Kootenai County Fire and Rescue, every penny raised is distributed in the form of gift cards from local retailers who also generously support the program. The cards can be used to buy food and gifts but not alcohol or tobacco products. All contributions are tax deductible.
To give, please send a check to:
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You can also call (208) 664-8176 weekdays between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. and donate by credit card.
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Recent donors include: Marty and Julie Westbrook; Ray and Marcine Doyal; Anonymous; Post Falls Community Volunteers; Dennis and Kathryn Arrneson; Dorothy Morey and Diane Dahlheim; John and Phyllis Albee; Donald and Maxine Schierman; Laureate ETA Beta; Mary and Brad Corkill; Ralph and Judith Nelson; Charles and Dorothy Clock; James and Nancy Barney; Gerald and Helen Taylor; Jeanne and James Whaley.