Vera, a devoted mother, recently moved to South Carolina from Oregon. In Oregon, Vera had a supportive community and all the resources she needed for Dmitriy, her 16 year old son who is non-verbal and was diagnosed with autism at an early age. However, when she moved it was difficult to communicate her needs because of a language barrier. Vera moved to the US in 1993 from Russia. Although she understands and can read English, Vera has trouble speaking the language.
Vera came into Greer Relief and asked for help from Nita, one of Greer Relief’s AmeriCorps members. Nita connected her with Yvonne, also an AmeriCorps member, who met with Vera and learned that this dedicated mother was tired and sleep deprived. Her biggest need? Health insurance for Dimitry, who suffers from epilepsy. Vera spends her nights fearfully guarding his every breath, afraid to sleep.
Within two weeks of submitting the application, Vera received health insurance for her son and was placed on waiting lists for services through the Department of Disabilities and Special Needs. Vera came in to see Yvonne on the verge of tears because she was unable to believe that both of them had healthcare and that he would be getting access to the services he needed. She kept waving the letter and asking, “Is this True?”. What an amazing moment to read the letter and let her know that she could take Dmitriy to the doctor and get the medicine, that he so desperately needed, refilled. She is overwhelmed with the progress that has been made so far, but there is still more work to be done.
There are many stories of need in this community. Vera is a small but powerful testament to the impact two people can make on someone’s life in a matter of hours. Vera left her first meeting with Yvonne with hope, tears of happiness, and a little less burden to bear. Greer Relief and our team is only able to provide services like these, and many others, with YOUR help.
As you reflect on the meaning of Thanksgiving and the excitement of participating in Black Friday and Cyber Monday, please consider donating on #GivingTuesday Greer Relief needs your support, and so does this community. No gift is too small.
Facebook is matching donations, and our generous Board of Directors is matching gifts up to $10,000! Donate through Facebook or go to www.greerrelief.org/donate.