GOOD MORNING AND WELCOME BACK TO ANOTHER SEASON OF GIVING WITH
BROOKE COMMUNICATIONS AND ROGUE CREDIT UNIONS WISH UPON A STAR.
THIS YEAR WE WILL GRANT 10 WISHES TO THOSE IN NEED OF A HAND UP,
INSPIRATION, AND TO LET THEM KNOW THEY ARE NOT ALONE IN THEIR FIGHT
TO SURVIVE.
AS WE BEGIN WISH UPON A STAR, WE ARE INTRODUCED TO A YOUNG WOMAN
WHO JUST LOST A PARENT, A ROCK, A MENTOR. FACED WITH A MOUNTAIN OF
STUFF TO ACCOMPLISH, LOOSE ENDS TO TIE UP, ALL WHILE TRYING TO GRIEVE
THE LOSS… HERE IS TODAY’S WISH UPON A STAR…
Samantha’s story is one of resilience in the face of tremendous challenges. She’s been the rock for her family, caring for her disabled dad and brother, shouldering immense responsibilities without asking for much in return. Her brother, battling Friedreich’s ataxia, requires full-time care, making every day a testament to Samantha’s strength and selflessness.
Tragically, their mother, who used to care for her son, recently passed away after a battle with cancer, leaving Samantha to not only handle her own grief but also take charge of her brother’s care. With her dad also in need of assistance, Samantha’s days are filled with commuting between work in Glide and ensuring her family’s well-being in Tenmile.
The enormity of Samantha’s responsibilities became even more challenging with her mom’s passing. Amidst grieving, she’s tasked with moving her late mother’s belongings, handling the practicalities of life, and coping with the loss. To add to the strain, Samantha is facing the emotional turmoil of not being in a position to afford a headstone for her mom, whose wishes were to be cremated and buried with her brother.
Rogue Credit Union’s and Brooke Communication’s Wish Upon a Star, in partnership with Pearson’s Funeral Home and Winston Sanitation, will provide Samantha with aid for funeral arrangements and dumpster services. This collective effort will help alleviate Samantha’s heavy load.
An all-expenses-paid coastal trip offers Samantha a much-needed chance to decompress and find solace as she navigates through grief and overwhelming responsibilities. Even though she rarely seeks help, the enormity of her tasks amidst her grief has left her feeling overwhelmed.
Samantha’s journey is a testament to human resilience in adversity. This granted wish and the collective support demonstrate that her strength and selflessness are recognized and valued, offering her the essential support she deserves during this incredibly challenging period.