Foundation News
Be Ready for Natural Disasters Before They Happen Gifts of Life A nurse went ahead of us as we approached the room of an elderly patient who had trouble breathing from the smoke of the King Fire. We were surprised as he greeted us with a huge smile as if he hadn’t a care in the world. “Hi, George…..we hear you’ve had it a bit rough lately!” He admitted the challenge shyly by relating he’d had little time to evacuate. He told us how his power had been turned off because of the fire, and he had lost all the food in his refrigerator and George Sedelmeier, patient; freezer. He was thrilled Barbara Sharp, nurses aid; and when we handed him a $300 Karen Good, executive director. gift card to help replace his groceries when he returned home. His grateful smile said it all as we sat visiting for awhile. The smiles played over and over as we assisted family after family as well as patients who were frustrated and hurting. Each met us with a look of astonishment in realizing so many people cared about their difficult situation. Each was grateful to be living in such a caring community.
Build a List
• A disaster supplies kit is simply a collection of basic items your household may need in the event of an emergency. • Assemble your kit well in advance. You will probably not have time to search for the supplies when an emergency hits. Include important documents. • Having sufficient food, water and other supplies will help you survive on your own for at least 72 hours. Relief workers may be on the scene but they cannot reach everyone immediately. You may get help soon or it might be days. • Basic services (electricity, gas, water, and sewage treatment) may be cut off for days or even a week, or longer. Your supplies kit should contain items to help you manage a crisis.
George cautioned us to have a plan before disaster happens, “For years I have kept a box by the door just in case with all my important papers, and this time I just grabbed the box.” We thank George for his excellent advice. All year long, because of the generosity of those who have invested in healthcare, the smiles continue. Many of these will never be able to repay the favor but appreciated our help just the same.
Encouragement. It’s what we do for each other to lift each other up, to support one another. The Strength for The Journey share sessions provide a safe place to work through the fears and uncertainties of a sudden loss. At this time of year we reflect on our loved ones who have passed on and, also, the ones who still surround us. We hold fast to the memories of the past and cherish the times we have building new memories today. At Strength for the Journey, friends find courage by participating in share sessions provided through the program. As our passionate founder, Earline Gutenberger, likes to say “there just has to be a way to help!” The program is supported by community donations, and some of those honor the life and memory of their loved ones. Your gift of gratitude for life helps to continue services free of charge to those who experience the heartache of sudden loss.
Students Walk to School Smiling A cool, crisp October morning celebrated seven elementary schools from El Dorado Hills to Placerville walking to school. Excited students sported iWalk to school placards and water bottles as they hurried off to school escorted by their teachers and parents. The local event created 11 years ago by Bob Smart of Diamond Springs raises awareness of the benefits of a healthy lifestyle of walking as well as safe pathways to school. Sierra School Principle Patrick Paturel believes in the annual event and would like to see it done more often. Spearheaded by Marshall Foundation from its inception, Marshall Mouse also participated in the 11th Anniversary in El Dorado County.
Marshall Mouse with an iWalk to School student.
For information on giving choices, visit Marshall Foundation at www. marshallfound.org or contact our office at 530-642-9984.
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