To take our kids to Disney World (or on some type of vacation)before they leave the house. My husband took early retirement after working 32 years for the same company to start his dream of owning a restaurant 8 years ago. He put all of his retirement money into the restaurant. He has worked every day for the last 8 years with no vacation. He and I have been together for 17 years and have 2 sons together. Last year Steven, my husband was diagnosed with stage III Colon Cancer and I was diagnosed wih Stage IIb breast cancer. While Steven was in and out of the hospital with surgeries, radiation and chemo, I worked a full time job that paid for the insurance and made sure the restaurant kept it’s doors open. I have had 2 surgeries, chemo for the last 6 months, breast surgery soon, then radiation every day for 6 weeks and then breast reconstruction surgery.
We have never had a vacation together, due to the restaurant finances and spending all our time working. We are currently in debt due to the restaurant and on top of that debt is our $31,000 in debt due to our medical bills. The bills will only get bigger, because I’m not done with my surgeries and treatment. I work full-time and my husband works all of the time and would like to show our sons some type of relief from just working and their parents being ill.
I have a dream to spend quality family time together with our 13 and 15 year old sons, that also work at our restaurant, go to school. I know we should use the money to pay for our outstanding medical bills, but I fear that we will always be in debt and never be able to give our children any type of vacation.
Thank you for your consideration. Thank you for all that you do for others. Even if we do not get chosen, thank you for doing what you do for others! You are amazing!!!! Some day I will be able to give back as well!!!
Maria Stines