Updates
06/01/2013
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Friends Helping FriendsPLEASE HELP US KEEP VICKI ALIVE!
Vicki is still having complications from the infection she developed back in Sept. 2011. She is needing to travel out of state again for medical care and needs your help to cover her travel, medical and living expenses. Any help you can give will be greatly appreciated.
02/19/2013
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Friends Helping FriendsFundraiser To Help Save Vicki Polin's life
As friends of Vicki Polin we are trying to alleviate some of the stress she has been going through by creating this online fundraiser for her. Every dollar donated helps to elevate some of the stress she is experiencing. Basically this fundraiser has been created to try to help save Vicki's life.
Within a few short days Vicki will be making her way to the Cleveland Clinic to undergo some serious testing to uncover the source of a medical complication she developed over the last year after going into sepsis shock back in October, 2011, after undergoing minor surgery in September of that same year.
Over the last 13 months Vicki Polin has gone to the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, MN four times, which includes one trip for open heart surgery.
As you can imagine her medical bills are mounting daily and this trip to Cleveland doesn't help matters much. Vicki will be hospitalized for between 5 to 7 days, if not longer. She also may be required to stay in the Cleveland area for some time after her hospitalization, which will add dramatically to the cost of this medically necessary trip.
There are a great deal of unknowns which are associated with this trip, which we all hope will be answered. We are all praying that we will learn both the cause and solutions to Vicki's current medical crisis, but the process of doing so is extremely expensive and she really could use your help.
Every single dollar donated helps to elevate some of Vicki's concerns about this trip, and will help pay for her travel expenses, daily living expenses –– along with her medical bills which keep piling up.
If you're in a position to help, please click on the link on the right hand side to make a donation using a credit card, or you can send a check to Vicki at the following address.
Vicki Polin
P.O. Box 4824
Skokie, IL 60076
02/10/2013
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Friends Helping FriendsOn The Road Again -- Traveling For Medical Care
Vicki Polin is needing to travel nearly 400 miles once again to receive medical treatment within the next few weeks.. Any help anyone can give to help cover her travel expenses will be greatly appreciated.
01/21/2013
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Friends Helping FriendsVicki Still Needs Your Financial Support
Vicki is still not out of the woods yet with her health crisis. Over the last several months she started experiencing another medical complications from the infection she developed after having a surgical precedure back in September, 2011.
Vicki needs to return to the Mayo Clinic for a consultation ASAP. This will be her 5th trip to Rochester, MN over the last year. To be able to go Vicki needs to raise at least $2,000 ASAP. A portion of the funds will cover a portion of her medical bill there. The rest is to assist her travel expenses. Any help you can give will be greatly appreciated. To date her medical bills are over $1 million dollars. Even though she has applied for assistance, Vicki is sill responsible for 20% of much of her medical expenses. Any help you can give will be greatly appreciated.
12/01/2012
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Friends Helping FriendsVicki sent me a note today saying:
Today is one of those days that I've been reflecting on what was going on in my life a year ago.
All I want to do is thank everyone who has helped me stay alive. Though I'm still not totally out of the woods, I'm doing so much better then I was.
I wish I could reach out to each and every one of you who shared their love and support, so I could give each of you a hug. I wish I knew how to thank so many people who helped to save my life.
03/21/2012
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Friends Helping FriendsUpdate: March 21, 2012
Today while talking with Vicki, she reported that if she added up all the little walks she took during the day -- she walked about 1/2 mile. Not to shabby for a woman who had major open heart surgery just two week ago today.
As you can guess Vicki's medical expenses are mounting, especially since she is not allowed to drive her car, nor lift more then 5 pounds. She has to hire someone to clean her home, do her laundry and assist in various other tasks and chores.
Vicki also needs help with some of her transportation expenses when she can't find rides, especially at the last minute. The other day Vicki had a minor medical crisis and had no choice but to take a cab to an emergency doctors appointment. That little cab ride cost her $35.00. Vicki was fortunate to find a friend to give her a ride back home. Fortunately, that particular mini medical emergency was corrected easily by changing medication.
Please help us help Vicki so she doesn't have to finances be something she worries about while she heals. Every dollar donated brings her that much closer to being able to survive.
11/07/2012
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Friends Helping FriendsURGENT CRY FOR HELP!
Dear Friends,
One of the hardest things I've ever done was to ask for help for myself, yet at this point in my life I have no other choice.
As many of you already know, a little more then a year ago I had become critically ill after devel
oping an infection after having minor surgery -- which lead to me going to the Mayo clinic for open heart surgery. I may look great, but the truth is that I'm still not out of the woods medically nor am I able to return to the working world. The problem remains that I still have days in which I'm home bound, due to having episodes in which I don't have the strength to hold my body up. I have a team of doctors working with me trying to resolve various medical complications -- leading to the fact that the total cost of my continuous medical care is already over a million dollars and sadly is growing daily.
I'm not unlike many other American's who either don't have health insurance or don't have enough to cover co-pays or the 20% that's not covered by health insurance. I was fortunate enough to qualify for my states spin-down program associated with medicaid. The problem is that my spin-down cost is $850 a month, which are funds I don't have which is required for me to receive any financial help. Needless to say I am drowning in medical debt.
Due to my current financial situation I have not been able to save up money to pay for the necessary repairs on my car. Because of this I need help. I need to raise at least $1500 as soon as possible. Any help anyone can give would be greatly appreciated.
If you're willing to help, please go to the following web page to make a donation. All you have to do is click on the yellow GIVE button on the left hand side of this page or you can send a check to:
Vicki Polin
P.O. Box 4824
Skokie, IL 60076
I also wanted to thank everyone for their love, support and prayers that you have been sending me over the last year.
09/03/2012
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Friends Helping FriendsVicki's Still Recovering and Needs Your Continued Support
It's taking Vicki much longer to recover then we all hoped. She still tires very easily and is not able to do the things she loves. She is still going through medical testing while her doctors try to figure out what's causing the problems she's experiencing.
Vicki's medical bills and daily living expenses are still growing, so any help you can give would be greatly appreciated.
07/23/2012
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Friends Helping FriendsAt this time Vicki Polin depends on the kindness of others to help her survive
For just under 30 years, Vicki Polin has been an outspoke activist in the Anti-rape movement. Since 1999, she has been a trailblazing pioneer advocating for the civil rights of survivors of sexual abuse/assault in Jewish communities globally and coined as the Susan B. Anthony for Jewish survivors. Those close to Vicki are aware that most of her career she has doing most of her work pro-bono,
As many of you are aware, over the course of the last 10 months, Vicki Polin has been hospitalized over 10 times and has had almost twice as many emergency room visits. Since January Vicki had no other option but to travel to the Mayo Clinic 4 times. Her medical expenses have been growing daily and her financial situation has gone beyond a crisis situation. As much as Vicki keeps trying to pop back on the advocacy/activist scene, Vicki Polin is not well enough to return to her life’s work.
As you can imagine, Vicki is having a very difficult time making ends meet and desperately needs your help to help her survive. Any help you can give will be greatly appreciated.
07/03/2012
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Friends Helping FriendsHelping Vicki at the Mayo Clinic
Vicki Polin wants to thank so many people who have been helping her organize and get back to the Mayo Clinic next week. She is extremely grateful for the individual who donated points so that she could fly to MN instead of driving. To be honest she told me that she didn't think she could physically drive herself that far right now considering her current health condition. Vicki keeps saying that she doesn't know how she can thank everyone else enough for showing me so much love and support during this insane time of my life.
As many of you may know Vicki Polin been experiencing some major health issues (complications from heart surgery) which are requiring her to go back to the Mayo Clinic. She is looking for someone who has a lot of airline points who would like to help her get a 3 nights at a hotel during her time at the Mayo Clinic. The points can be from any airline that has hotels in Rochester, MN. If you have them and would like to donate them to her, please message her privately at: VickiPolin@aol.com
Please be aware that she may end up having to stay much longer in Rochester, yet she won't know that until next week. She may be looking at having more open heart surgery. Your thoughts, prayers and financial support is desperately needed.
06/26/2012
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Friends Helping FriendsDear Friends,
Many of you know, Vicki has been facing some serious health issues over the last nine months. Once again she really needs to go back to The Mayo Clinic ASAP. Unfortunately, she don't have the funds to do so. If your in a position to help she would be extremely grateful. All you need to do is click on the yellow "GIVE" button on the right hand side of this page.
She needs to raise at least $2,000 right away for her travel expenses and other related costs.
Thank you so much for helping to save her life!
06/19/2012
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Friends Helping FriendsThe following article came out today that was published in the AARP (June/July) magazine in which Vicki was quoted.
As many of you know Vicki is NOT out of the woods yet medically. Her medical bills are mounting and any help you can give would be greatly appreciated. Every dollar donated helps immensely.
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Need Cash for Health Care? Ask!
How crowdfunding websites can help you pay for expensesby: Kayleigh Kulp | from:
AARP The Magazine | June/July 2012 issue
When
Vicki Polin traveled 400 miles to get treatment for a heart defect, she had only $200 to her name. She ultimately needed heart surgery but had no idea how she'd afford her copay. Then a friend started a page for her on YouCaring.com. By the time she was discharged, her loved ones, and even strangers, had donated more than $1,000. In addition, she raised about $6,000 in the next couple of months to help cover more than $7,000 in related health expenses. "It literally helped save my life and was almost as important as the surgeon who performed [my] open-heart surgery," says the 52-year-old resident of Greater Chicago.
Can't afford to pay your medical bills? Crowdfunding sites can help.
YouCaring, like other crowdfunding sites such asGiveForward.com andFundly.com, helps users pay bills, allowing givers to securely donate money (from $1 on up). Many sites connect user accounts to Twitter and Facebook, to solicit donations instantly. About 23 percent of GiveForward's users are 50-plus, along with 35 percent of YouCaring's beneficiaries.
Before you start a campaign, first research each site's fees and how quickly funds transfer. (Polin learned that some sites take up to 7 percent of donations as a fee, and others transfer funds only when your goal has been met.) Also talk with a professional tax adviser or attorney to confirm how donations can affect your filing status or public-assistance standing. After you start, be open with contributors, advises Fundly CEO Dave Boyce. And — regardless of how much you receive — always say thanks.
05/29/2012
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Friends Helping FriendsVicki Still Needs Your Help!
It's been awhile since we've written an update on this site. On so many levels Vicki is doing much better, yet she's not back to her old self yet.
Vicki has been able to come off most of her heart medication, yet her energy level still waxes and wanes. Her rehabbing has been slowed down quiet a bit due to the fact that she tires very easily and at times is still pretty weak. As Vicki's put it, "I'm still learning to pace myself in hopes of decreasing the days I end up being homebound."
Vicki's been dabbling with various aspects of The Awareness Center, yet she's far from being not strong enough to come back full force.
It's been 8 months since Vicki first got sick. She's really struggling financially to make it through each month. Her medical bills are mounting and she really needs your financial support to be able to make it during this crazy time in her life. If you in a place that you can help, please send what ever you can.
To make a donation click on the yellow "Gift" button on the right hand side of this page
Or you can send a check to Vicki directly. Please write the word GIFT in the memo section of the check:
Vicki Polin
P.O. Box 4824
Skokie, IL 60076
For those of you interested in saying the Mi Sheberakh, Vicki's hebrew name is Shoshana Avigail bat Shoshana Avigail.
04/21/2012
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Friends Helping FriendsShe's come a long way baby . . . to get where she got today!
Just to recap what's been happening -- Vicki Polin had minor surgery back in September and woke up with a fever. By October Vicki went into sepsis shock. In November she ended up with a blood clot from the central IV which delivered an extremely strong antibiotic -- and then by end of December she could barely walk around the block. Early in January Vicki took herself to the Mayo Clinic and learned she needed to have lifesaving open heart surgery. It's hard to believe that a little more then six short weeks ago Vicki was facing a life or death situation. It's amazing the difference great medical care and some time can have on the destiny of a friend's life.
Yesterday Vicki Polin saw one of her doctors from Mayo and since the first time since September was who told her she's doing great. Good enough that starting next week Vicki will go three times a week for cardiac rehab and twice a week for regular physical therapy to help her rebuild her strength and to continue for her recovery go in the right direction.
As friends of Vicki Polin, we are asking everyone if they could help Vicki financially survive a little bit longer. Her medical bills keep growing along with her daily living living expenses. Going to rehab is expensive, especially since her insurance only covers 80% of the bills. Every dollar donated helps elevate some of the financial crisis Vicki is facing. Vicki is extremely grateful to those who have already helped her. It's amazing that in such a short time period that almost $7,000 have been raised. The problem is that it is estimated that we still need to raise another $13,000. Any help you can give would be so helpful. Vicki also wants to add that a huge heart felt thanks goes to everyone for your love and support you have already given.
To make a donation click on the yellow "Gift" button on the right hand side of this page
Or you can send a check to Vicki directly. Please write the word GIFT in the memo section of the check:
Vicki Polin
P.O. Box 4824
Skokie, IL 60076
For those of you interested in saying the Mi Sheberakh, Vicki's hebrew name is Shoshana Avigail bat Shoshana Avigail.
04/08/2012
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Friends Helping FriendsVicki Polin Update:
Considering the work Vicki Polin has done in the anti-rape movement for over twenty-eight years -- it’s really amazing that she has lived most of her life in heart failure.
As many of you know, Vicki Polin was born with several holes in her heart, which were repaired when she was ten years old. When she had her original surgery back in 1969, they did not know how to repair an Ebstein’s Anomoly (which is an extremely rare heart defect), so they left her tricuspid valve alone.
Over the last several months Vicki had become quite ill. A little more then four weeks ago Vicki had her second open heart surgery at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, MN.
Vicki has been extremely grateful for those of you have already helped her with her expenses, yet she needs to raise at least another $7,000 to $10,000 to cover her mounting medical bills that are NOT covered by her insurance.
The surgery Vicki had at the Mayo clinic was extremely unique. You see Vicki’s tricuspid valve was much to low in her heart and was not formed correctly, so what her surgeon had to do was to remove and repair her tricuspid valve, then build up the tissue inside her right ventricle (inside her heart) and insert her valve back into her heart. The hope is that eventually these corrections will take her out of heart failure and that she will be able to function better then ever. To do so, Vicki is still needing cardiac rehab, which she will attend several days a week for the next 3 to 4 months.
Besides her hospital bills from before and after surgery, she will also be responsible for paying for 20% of cardiac rehab along with other medical and living expenses that go along with having this type of surgery. Due to the state of the health care system today in the United States, Vicki needs all the help she can get so that she can come back and continue to work with survivors of sexual abuse/assault. Any and all help you can give will be greatly appreciated. To help, click on the on the YELLOW “Gift” button to the right.
If you would rather send a check you can do so by sending it to the following address. Make the check out to Vicki Polin and write GIFT in the memo section of your check.
Vicki Polin
P.O. Box 4824
Skokie, IL 60076
04/02/2012
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Friends Helping FriendsPlease continue to help Vicki!
It's hard to believe that almost four weeks have gone by since Vicki Polin had open heart surgery. Her healing journey has not been without a few bumps in the road, yet she finally doing much better. In a few more weeks she will be starting cardiac rehab. As you can imagine her medical bills are mounting. Her insurance does not cover all of her medications, medical bills, travel and other basic living expenses. Vicki needs to raise at least $3000 to $4000 more to cover these expenses.
Please if there's anyway you can help click on the YELLOW Give button on the right had side of this page.
Every single dollar donated brings Vicki that much closer to being able to survive during these difficult times.
03/16/2012
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Friends Helping FriendsFriday morning Update:
Vicki Polin was discharged from the hospital on Tuesday, only to be brought back by ambulance about 6 hours later.
Vicki's condition was stabilized and si doing much better. She was discharged again yesterday afternoon. Vicki reported to me this morning that she is doing much better and looking forward to sleeping in her own bed back in Chicago motzi shabbos (Saturday night).
Once Vicki returns home she's going to need a lot of TLC -- including emotional, physical and financial support. As you can guess the medical bills are mounting. Vicki will not be allowed to drive for a few more weeks, meaning she will need help getting to and from doctors appointments, shopping, and just about anything you can think of. Vicki has no family so she is completely dependent on the kindness of her friends to take her from one place to another and to have funds readily available to pay for transportation to and from medical appointments.
Vicki told me that one of the most difficult things about having this surgery has been her inability to help others. As much as she wants jump right back in she needs time to mend. Besides myself, several of her friends have to keep reminding her about this. So please be mindful of this if do communicate with her over the next several weeks.
Vicki also told me that she might be starting cardiac rehab as soon as next week or the week right after that. This is much sooner then what she was originally told. This is good very news because it speaks to the progress she has already has made.
If you would like to contribute to donate funds to Vicki, you can do so by clicking on this link and then clicking on the yellow button on the right had side of the page that says GIVE. The funds go immediately to her, without services fees taken out by youcaring.
http://www.youcaring.com/fundraiser_details?url=friendshelping&fundraiser_id=458
03/14/2012
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Friends Helping FriendsFrom Vicki Polin:
I was discharged from the hospital several hours ago. I can't believe it has already been a week since I had open heart surgery.
So far I'm doing pretty good. Just to be safe I won't be leaving MN for several more days after seeing my doctors here one moe time. So far I'm doing pretty good. I can't believe how much energy I have in such a short period of time.
The truth is that due to the congenital heart defect I have been in heart failure since my childhood. I've been told that It is possible that within a few months my heart could be functioning at an almost normal level.
If it wasn't for the fact every day medical techonology has been getting better, I would not be here today. I am so thankful and grateful for everyone and every thing that has made this possible. I'm still going to need a lot of rehabbing, yet considering where I was and where I am right now, I'm totally amazed.
03/11/2012
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Friends Helping FriendsMedical Update:
Vicki Polin wants everyone to know she's doing fine and thank everyone for their thoughts, positive thoughts and prayers. They have all been helping her immensely. Vicki will be in the hospital for a few more days before she's discharge to a hotel. She will remain in Rochester for several days until she's well enough to fly back home. Surgery went better then expected. The good news is that her surgeon was able to repair her Tricuspid valve instead of replacing it. This was something they did not believe was possible, yet once they opened her up found they were able to do.
Vicki will need 6 to 8 weeks to recover from surgery prior to start cardiac rehab -- which will last for three to four months after she heals from the operation.
The doctors already have her up and walking and she is amazed at how far she's able to walk around the hospital unit. Each day that goes by she is getting stronger and stronger.
Because of the length of her recover time she continues to need your financial support. She also has to raise an additional $3000 - $4000 for her co-pays from surgery and doctor fees. Every penny donated t her will go to helping her pay her daily living expenses, medical bills and travel expenses related to her surgery. If you are able to help click on the following link and then click on the YELLOW gift button on the right hand side of the page.
03/06/2012
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Friends Helping FriendsA note from Vicki Polin
On an emotional level I'm totally prepared for surgery. I really want to thank each and everyone of you who have been sending me their love, prayers, thoughts and healthy vibes my way. It really means a great deal to me -- along with those of you who have offered to help financially to get me here and help me cope with the medical expenses when I go home. This surgery is giving me a third chance at life. I say third since I had my first life saving heart surgery when I was a child.
(((((((((((EVERYONE))))))))))))))))) Thank you so much for helping to save my life.
03/01/2012
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Friends Helping FriendsA Friend of Vicki and a Beneficiary of Her Support
I have shared my history of being molested with countless mental health professionals over the span of two decades -- during most of which I wanted nothing more than to die -- sometimes desperately. Not one of my past psychotherapists seemed interested in dealing with my sexual assault which occurred at the age of eleven. Instead they were intent on examining my early relationship with my parents.
Despite the fact that sexual assault of children has a rampant presence in today’s society, from my own personal experience very few psychotherapists are willing to focus on it in a treatment setting. I've also found that there are few resources such as self-help or other types of support groups available to survivors that are not connected to a Christian faith.
The truth is that its only since 2003 that the notion of clergy sexual abuse has made it to mainstream media -- when a case within the Catholic church popped up originally in the Boston Globe.
Little did I know that back in 1999 Vicki Polin started to create the first international organization dedicated to ending sexual violence in Jewish communities. Back in 2006 I stumbled upon The Awareness Center's web page. It was the only resource out there for Jewish survivors. I called the number listed for the website and Vicki Polin answered. I subsequently learned that Vicki has been maintaining that web site almost singlehandedly for many years. Vicki’s generous contribution of her time, along with her emotional and moral support has been extraordinarily valuable over the years for me. Her contribution in terms of resources has been invaluable and integral in me reaching my goal of separating my offender (the rabbi) from any other children -- and bringing my perpetrator to justice.
Vicki connected me with a rabbi, who has decades of experience with this issue, and a lawyer who has the most extensive experience in dealing with sexual perpetrators. Since connecting with Vicki, I've had an opportunity to face my perpetrator. Since that time I have not experienced depression to the degree of severity I had since I was originally assaulted over thirty years ago.
I know that Vicki Polin has been fighting tirelessly on behalf of survivors of sex crimes and to prevent anyone else from being harmed for decades -- and has thus probably assisted hundreds if not thousands. I'm sure that so many people have no idea that because of the work Vicki has done, they have been sparred a life like what mine had become.
We need Vicki in this world for a long time, her work is NOT complete. I personally know that once she's back to health, she will continue with her life's work, rendering assistance and support to survivors and their family members alike, and continue fighting for the civil and moral rights of people like me.
A big mitzvah (blessing) which God demands of us is that we give “tzedakah", which is often mistranslated as “charity.” The word Tzedakah comes from the root word “tzedek”, which means justice. God understands that this world is inherently unfair, so God asks that those who have “more” (than they need) give to individuals who have “less” (than they need). In this case, it is far more about justice, that we help Vicki Polin who has metaphorically saved so many lives -- to continue to live a long healthy life so she can continue her sacred work.
While I myself am struggling financially to cover my basic and medical necessities of living, I feel it a moral and spiritual imperative to contribute a few dollars a month to help Vicki in her time of need. I am asking that you do the same.
Sincerely,
A Friend of Vicki and a Beneficiary of Her Support
02/26/2012
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Friends Helping FriendsA note from Sima Gittel
BS"D
Shalom u'vracha (Peace and Blessings),
I first met my dear friend Vicki Polin almost fourteen years ago while we were both students at Neve Yerushalayim (a women's seminary in Jerusalem, Israel).
For those of you who don't really know Vicki, I want to tell you a little about her. As many of you already know, Vicki has spent most of her adult life educating the public and helping survivors of sexual abuse and rape -- with hardly any financial compensation.
Vicki Polin is one of THE MOST caring, compassionate, and generous person I have ever met. She will give just about anything and everything she has to help another person in need. Over the years I've watched Vicki come to the rescue of so many people, way too many to count. Vicki not only helps people she personally knows, I have also watched her help tons of individuals she has never met before from all around the world. I feel so privileged and honored to have her as a close and personal friend. She is like family to me. I feel extremely pained by the fact that I currently live in Israel and cannot be with Vicki during her surgery and to help her the weeks following surgery, while she recovers.
Vicki will be having open-heart surgery early March, in less then two weeks. Vicki was told last week that after the initial six to eight weeks of recovery from surgery, she will need at least three months of cardiac rehab. Meaning she may not be able to return to work until at least July or August.
I'm very much aware how much Vicki desperately needs financial support in order to get her through all of this. I am asking everyone who reads this letter, to please find it in your hearts to give at least a little bit to support this most amazing, caring, gentle, kind, loving, dedicated and giving woman. For years, Vicki has been there for so many, it's now our turn to return the kindness. Vicki really needs all of our help to make it through -- until she has a complete recovery.
Thank you for your kindness and generosity!
Sima Gittel
02/24/2012
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Friends Helping FriendsA note from Dr. Michael J. Salamon
We are instructed by our ethics to contribute to charities. The charities that we choose are often based on a variety of factors - personal expressions of our beliefs, organizations that we align with and feeling part of a greater community. Sometimes, we are confronted with more personal reasons to aid in charitable endeavors. I was taught by my parents that if someone approaches you with their hand out you must always give. That is true charity. Not to ask why they need or even who they are but just because they have asked. We are not all built that way. We spend too much time analyzing how we should give and where we will get the "biggest bang for our buck."
For the last decade or so I have worked with an amazing woman who understands the true meaning of charity - giving to others day and night- to people she never even met, from all around the world. She is a strong woman with a laser like focus on her goals. For that reason she may have upset some people. But, I know the true Vicki. She is a warm, nurturing person who is extremely helpful.
Vicki now needs some help. It is an unfortunate person who cannot see that with just a little assistance Vicki will once again be able to return to her role of helping the needy individuals of our society. Please help her now . The reward will be immeasurable.
Michael J. Salamon, Ph.D., FICPP
Senior Psychologist/Director
ADC Psychological Services, PLLC
1728 Broadway, Suite 1
Hewlett, NY 11557
516 596-0073
www.psychologicalhelp.org
02/14/2012
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Friends Helping FriendsIt's time to save a bleeding heart!Today is the last day of the National Congenital Heart Defect (CHD) Awareness Week.
One out of every 100 babies are born with a CHD. It is only half of one percent of those born with a CHD will be born with an Ebsteins Anomaly -- which is the heart defect Vicki Polin will be having corrected in March.
Vicki was born with a few heart defects. When she was ten years old she had her first open heart surgery -- to patch up two holes in her heart. The truth is that back in 1969, surgeons did not know what to do with her valve problem -- so they told her parents not to worry. You see Vicki is amongst the first generation of adults who have survived past childhood with a serious congenital heart defect. Back then open heart surgery was still in its infancy and most child cardiologists did not believe the children they saw would live as long as they have. It's hard to believe that if Vicki did not have that first surgical procedure over forty years ago, she most likely would not have lived past her sixteenth birthday. Meaning she would not have been able to do the work she's done for the last 28 years in helping survivors of sexual violence.
It wasn't until 1971, two years after Vicki had her first open heart surgery that the first operation was performed to correct an Ebsteins Anomaly, and that initial operation was done at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, MN.
Vicki has been in heart failure most of her life. More recently her tricuspid valve has been regurgitating (leaking) at a severe rate. She tires extremely quickly and has not been able to work. In less then a month Vicki will be flying to the Mayo Clnic to have a heart valve replacement. Vicki's surgery is much more complicated then a normal transplant since her tricuspid valve is much lower in her heart then it is for others. Not only will the surgeons be replacing her tricuspid valve, they will be using some of the tissue in her heart to build up the wall to move her valve up higher in her right ventricle so that her heart will function better then it ever had.
To understand how rare Vicki's heart defect is, you have to understand that in the 31 years that the Mayo Clinic has been operating on individuals with EA, they have only repaired about 800 hearts with this anomaly. On average an individual surgeon will perform about 500 - 600 operations a year. Because of this, Vicki's best possible chances for a positive outcome is to head over to Rochester, MN. The travel expenses are high, along with all the other costs related to having surgery like this.
Please help us help Vicki live a long and productive life -- so that she can continue to help protect children and assist adults who are survivors of sexual abuse/assault. Any help you can give would be greatly appreciated, even if it's only to share
this link with others.
02/06/2012
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Friends Helping FriendsA note from Vicki
Dear Friends,
I don’t know how to thank each and everyone you enough for all the love, kindness and support you have been showing me over the last few months.
Tears weld up in my eyes every time I think about the amazing things that both people I personally know and strangers have been doing to help save my life.
I’ll admit that I’m scared. It’s more then just having to have open heart surgery and having to travel more then 400 miles to do so because I have such a rare congenital heart defect. It’s also due to the fact that I have no family.
When I was first told that I needed to have a heart valve transplant I really thought I was going to be doing this surgery on my own. I am so relieved to report that the kindness of others has been shining through. Again I don’t know how to thank so many people who have been doing so much to help me both emotionally and financially.
Early in January a friend realized how great my financial need was going to be and automatically did research and found youcaring.com. The other day a friend donated airline points to cover the cost of my flight to and from the Mayo Clnic. Another friend who lives on the east coast is hoping to be able to fly in to be with me during and after surgery, especially during the time I’m in ICU. Today a woman I’ve never met who has the same heart defect as me is planning to drive two hours to spend time with me before surgery. There has also been an outpouring of support from people on Facebook.
It’s not where you are in life, it’s who you have by your side that matters.
Again, I don’t know how to thank everyone enough for all the love, kindness and support you have been showing me.
Love,
Vicki
02/02/2012
by
Friends Helping FriendsHello Everyone,
I am humbly asking for your help on behalf of a dear friend of mine and yours, (although you may not know her). Vicki Polin is a woman who has given so much of her life to protect children from the horrors of sexual abuse by trusted adults. She is almost solely responsible for ripping the cover off of the unthinkable notion that rabbis sexually abused children. What was once regarded as an impossible notion, has been uncovered to be as common as the sexual abuse by priests, coaches and other blindly trusted authorities. Vicki has paid a very dear price for her commitment of keeping the issue alive and never letting go of the fact that rabbis too, were molesting kids. Vicki was not only ostracized by her community, but was literally run out of town and recently moved from Baltimore to Chicago this past year. The main reason that she left Baltimore was that she exposed beloved and revered rabbis for what they were able to get away with for so many years. The repercussions were severe.
For generations to come, children will be forever protected from being sexually abused because of her courage, although the world will never know who the hero was.
She is in need of a heart valve transplant and will be having surgery at the Mayo clinic in the next several weeks. She also has not been able to work for some time. I won’t go into the details of the costs associated with her surgery, but as you can imagine, they are significant.
I am respectfully asking for you to consider making a contribution to Vicki. All of our children, grand children and all of our future generations to come will forever live more safely from the threat of being abused as children because of Vicki. She is a champion on this planet. She has given so much without the any possibility of personal gain. Would you please consider giving back to this silent hero?
Thank you for your consideration, donations and generosity. Also, if you are inclined to do so, please pass this on to others you feel might be able to contribute as well. Thanks.
All the best,
Bob Russell
01/26/2012
by
Friends Helping FriendsLast night Vicki returned from the Mayo Clinic after being told she needs to have a heart valve transplant. Her surgery is sceduled for March. She needs to raise funds for her travel expenses, which include airfare, and to be able to stay in a hotel for between 2 to 4 weeks after surgery, along with other travel related expenses. Any help you can give would be greatly appreciated.
01/23/2012
by
Friends Helping FriendsVicki needs your immediate help! Yesterday she had to drive just under 400 miles for a follow up visit after being hospitalized for several days a little over a week ago. Her travel expenses, co-pays and the 20% of her medical bills that are not covered by her insurance are mounting.
Driving to MN in the winter is very iffy. Due to hazardous weather conditions, Vicki may be forced to stay an extra day. Any help you can give would be greatly appreciated.
Supporters
Bill & Shirley
donated$50.00
Saturday, June 15, 2013
God Bless You!
Malkie Lundner
donated$250.00
Monday, June 10, 2013
Refuah Shelemah
Get well soon!!
With my love,
Malkie
Toby Myers
donated$36.00
Friday, June 07, 2013
Wish I could do more. You are so deserving. Holding you close.
An Anonymous Friend in Yerushalayim
donatedHidden Amount
Friday, June 07, 2013
Refua Shelayma
Anonymous
donated$50.00
Tuesday, June 04, 2013
Good luck and take good care of yourself!
Carol Corcoran
donatedHidden Amount
Monday, June 03, 2013
Blessings of healing
Anonymous
donated$10.00
Sunday, June 02, 2013
Joseph R. Weiss
donated$500.00
Sunday, June 02, 2013
Miguel
donated$12.00
Tuesday, March 05, 2013
From one veteran to another
Deborah D. Tucker
donated$25.00
Thursday, February 28, 2013
With sincere best wishes for the treatments to help you, Debby
Miguel
donated$10.00
Friday, February 22, 2013
Vicki, I wish I could do so much more but living on disability one just doesn't have enough to go around.
If love cured, you would be well! Thanks for all you do for kids. Sexual abuse of children transcends everything. It's in every religion and anywhere people have power over others. Bless you Vicki, you truly
are a hero!
Miguel/Maria Goretti Network
donated$10.00
Friday, February 22, 2013
Adults abused as kids love and appreciate you very, very much Vicki. Get well soon!
Sarah Yehudit Schneider
donated$25.00
Monday, February 18, 2013
Blessings to you, Vicki, for a complete and speedy healing. shalom Shalom...Sarah Yehudit Schneider
Pamela Noblitt
donated$10.00
Friday, February 15, 2013
Hey Vicki,
So sorry you've had to endure such tsurus. Hope you're well on the road to recovery.
Toby Landesman
donatedHidden Amount
Thursday, February 14, 2013
Thinking of you and wishing you well.
Margaret Roefs
donatedHidden Amount
Wednesday, February 13, 2013
Hope you're better soon!
Anonymous
donated$1,000.00
Wednesday, February 13, 2013
SNAP DFW Group
donated$150.00
Tuesday, February 12, 2013
We are pulling for you here in Dallas/Ft. Worth.
sherri gross
donatedHidden Amount
Monday, February 11, 2013
refuah shleima!
Nancy
donatedHidden Amount
Monday, February 11, 2013
The world is a better place because you are in it Vicki. I hope the Cleveland clinic can help!
Tzali Fortgang
donatedHidden Amount
Monday, February 11, 2013
Refuah shelima
Malkie Lundner
donated$180.00
Wednesday, February 06, 2013
Refuah Shelemah!
Miguel
donated$20.00
Wednesday, January 30, 2013
We love you Vicky! Thanks for all you do to make the worl safer for kids and vulnerable adults!
Marcia Cohn Spiegel
donated$100.00
Thursday, January 24, 2013
Mike Lew
donated$54.00
Tuesday, January 22, 2013
Anonymous
donated$5.00
Friday, January 11, 2013
Your a great women. keep up the great work with your head held up high.
Anonymous
donated$50.00
Wednesday, December 19, 2012
Tiferet
donated$36.00
Thursday, December 13, 2012
Happy Hanukkah! Blessings for abundant sustenance and continued healing.
Tiferet Israel
donated$36.00
Friday, November 09, 2012
May you be blessed with all you need and with all your heart's desires for the very best.
Shoshana Shamberg
donated$100.00
Thursday, November 08, 2012
Anonymous
donatedHidden Amount
Wednesday, November 07, 2012
Anonymous
donated$20.00
Wednesday, November 07, 2012
May Hashem hear your prayers.
Marcia Spiegel
donated$50.00
Wednesday, November 07, 2012
Friend from Dallas, TX
donated$100.00
Wednesday, November 07, 2012
Prayers and positive energy sent your way. God bless you.
Susie Survivor
donated$50.00
Wednesday, November 07, 2012
It is an honor to help one who has helped so many~Blessings & Hugs
~Susie
Shoshana Shamberg
donatedHidden Amount
Monday, October 29, 2012
Refuah shelayma. Keep me informed of your needs. Please email in another month and I may be able to donate additional funds
Bonnie Simone
donated$200.00
Monday, October 22, 2012
Wishing you all the best,
Bonnie
ATman
donated$100.00
Friday, October 19, 2012
Anonymous
donated$25.00
Wednesday, August 01, 2012
Tamar
donatedHidden Amount
Tuesday, July 31, 2012
Refuah Sheleima, Vicki. The Awareness Center has been a source of healing for me since its inception.
Anonymous
donatedHidden Amount
Tuesday, July 24, 2012
queen esther
donatedHidden Amount
Monday, July 09, 2012
you are love & light friend! big hugs
Barbara Engel
donatedHidden Amount
Saturday, July 07, 2012
Dearest Vicki, I am sending you love and hope for a full and robust recovery. So many of us are indebted to you for your courageous work and caring spirit. Barbara Engel
Israel T. Appel
donated$36.00
Saturday, July 07, 2012
Refuah sheleima, Vicki!
Miriam Bat Karina
donated$52.00
Wednesday, July 04, 2012
michael schudrich
donated$72.00
Tuesday, July 03, 2012
refuah shleyma
Sherwin Yaffe
donated$50.00
Tuesday, July 03, 2012
I hope you make a refuah shelaima so you can continue to make the Jewish world more safe for our children
Your Chicago friend from Texas
donated$50.00
Monday, July 02, 2012
Prayers and good wishes from across the miles. Blessings for all you do for others.
Elyse and Joel Mashbaum
donatedHidden Amount
Monday, July 02, 2012
My best wishes go out to you for a successful resolution to your health problems and for a normal, enjoyable life and good life's work ahead.
Elyse and Joel Mashbaum
Nancy
donatedHidden Amount
Saturday, June 30, 2012
I am so sorry that you are still struggling with this health issue! I hope the Mayo can figure out a solution!
KenF
donatedHidden Amount
Friday, June 29, 2012
My thoughts of health and well being for you are being passed along with this gift.
mitch morrison
donated$100.00
Friday, June 29, 2012
Vicki, i was not aware of your illness. you are a great Chayelet in fighting for both your health and the wellness of victims of abuse. Wishing you complete refuah and many happy and productive years. Very best, Mitch
Anonymous
donated$25.00
Friday, June 29, 2012
Rabbi Dr. Mordechai Glick
donated$200.00
Thursday, June 28, 2012
May you be granted a complete recovery.
Zalman Dov Leiter
donated$20.00
Tuesday, June 26, 2012
May you be blessed with the best of health!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Helen Vecht
donated$50.00
Tuesday, June 26, 2012
Marcia Cohn Spiegel
donatedHidden Amount
Tuesday, June 26, 2012
Praying for a good outcome to this procedure. Love, Marty
Dick Schwartz
donated$200.00
Wednesday, June 20, 2012
Vicki, I had no idea you were going thru this. I had a valve repair 9 years ago that has held up very well, so I know what an ordeal it is and how expensive it it. I hope you're recovery is going well.
Dick
Michael Brecher
donated$36.00
Wednesday, May 30, 2012
I LOVE You m'dear!
Ken Chackes, St Louis
donated$50.00
Wednesday, May 30, 2012
LLL
donatedHidden Amount
Wednesday, May 23, 2012
Jeannie Wells Yablonsky
donatedHidden Amount
Saturday, April 21, 2012
Anonymous
donatedHidden Amount
Tuesday, April 17, 2012
Feel good always! Health onto you and yours! Thank you for everything you do!
Miguel/Maria Goretti Network
donated$25.00
Thursday, April 05, 2012
Love from Texas!
Joel and Elyse M.
donatedHidden Amount
Monday, April 02, 2012
Best wishes for your speedy recovery Vicki,
Joel and Elyse M.
Pam & John Dupuy
donated$100.00
Monday, March 26, 2012
Chana
donated$200.00
Saturday, March 17, 2012
Welcome home :) rest up and take care...
Steve Sheehan
donated$100.00
Wednesday, March 14, 2012
Vicki, My prayers are with you for a swift recovery. I hope to see you at the next SNAP Conference!
Steve Sheehan, NSAC News
Dave O'Regan
donated$25.00
Wednesday, March 14, 2012
Happy your health is improving.
Aryeh & Bracha Goetz
donated$18.00
Wednesday, March 14, 2012
We continue to daven a Refuah Shleimah for your complete recovery / physical & spiritual !
Michael
donated$36.00
Monday, March 12, 2012
Know, dear Vicki, that You are always in my heart and in my mind...
Michael Armstrong
donated$50.00
Sunday, March 11, 2012
Chana Sandberg
donated$18.00
Saturday, March 10, 2012
The Natoli Family
donated$100.00
Thursday, March 08, 2012
I am a member of VOTF and wish to encourage Vicki to continue her work for the abused as soon as she recovers from this surgery. You are in my prayers and in God's hands.
Anonymous
donated$130.00
Wednesday, March 07, 2012
Anonymous
donated$50.00
Wednesday, March 07, 2012
Steve L.
donated$25.00
Tuesday, March 06, 2012
Anonymous
donatedHidden Amount
Tuesday, March 06, 2012
Vicki, may you have a speedy recovery, feeling better than you ever did before .
Suzie Burgess
donatedHidden Amount
Saturday, March 03, 2012
Best of luck with your surgery ~ we're all pulling for you and know you'll be back soon!! <3 <3 btw, we have the same Hebrew name "Shashanah"
Miguel/Maria Goretti Network
donated$25.00
Thursday, March 01, 2012
We love you Vicki! Keep on keeping on sistuh!
Daniel Steinmetz
donated$54.00
Monday, February 27, 2012
Take care and get well.
Rabbi Ruth Adar
donated$36.00
Sunday, February 26, 2012
Wishing you a refuah shleimah, a healing to wholeness.
Robert Wiener, NJ Jewish News
donatedHidden Amount
Sunday, February 26, 2012
Get well, Vicki. You've got a lot more work to do. Like Bruce Springsteen said to Pete Seeger on Seeger's 90th burthday "Pete, you outlived the bastards!" We need to say that about you, too,
Anonymous
donated$100.00
Friday, February 24, 2012
Dr. Mordechai Glick
donated$100.00
Friday, February 24, 2012
Anonymous
donated$100.00
Friday, February 24, 2012
Ellen and Marc Mugmon
donated$250.00
Sunday, February 19, 2012
Menucha R.
donated$100.00
Saturday, February 18, 2012
Praying that all will be 100% successful!
Michael
donated$36.00
Wednesday, February 15, 2012
As I think I said last time, and if I didn't I should have: I owe You my life Vicki...I wish I could make it more, but things (as always) are a bit tight... Please do not hesitate, though, if it comes to it-there IS room on my credit card. I love You so dearly, my friend!
Anonymous
donated$180.00
Wednesday, February 15, 2012
May Hashem send you a complete recovery and strength to live your life to the fullest.
Vicki Gordon
donated$120.00
Wednesday, February 15, 2012
Maya Abramsky
donatedHidden Amount
Tuesday, February 14, 2012
Hope you get well soon! Your courage and integrity are amazing!
Jim Hopper
donated$50.00
Tuesday, February 14, 2012
Dear Vicki and family,
May you have all the love and support you need during this challenging time.
Warmly,
Jim
Jenny Weinstein
donated$200.00
Tuesday, February 14, 2012
Vicki, Wishing you well - A Re'fuah Sh'elamah
You are in my payers - I hope it all goes well
Asher Lipner
donated$72.00
Tuesday, February 07, 2012
Vicki you are in my prayers for a Refuah Shleima. A full and speedy recovery.
Anonymous
donated$100.00
Tuesday, February 07, 2012
Anonymous
donated$360.00
Monday, February 06, 2012
May you be surrounded by love and Love and may your recovery/healing
be full of sweet blessings as you have been a blessing in so many lives .. including mine.
Beth Copeland
donated$100.00
Saturday, February 04, 2012
Wishing for your recovery from surgery, Vicki. I'm sending good thoughts your way.
Ben Hirsch
donated$360.00
Friday, February 03, 2012
Wishing you well. Good luck with the surgery.
Sam Nadler
donated$300.00
Friday, February 03, 2012
God Bless you and good luck
You helped me in my time of need.
Be well !
Sam
Anonymous
donated$72.00
Thursday, February 02, 2012
Vicki, thank you for all your brave and important work. Many blessings to you!
Anonymous
donated$360.00
Thursday, February 02, 2012
You'll pull through and continue your most admirable crusade to protect the kids. Yashar Kochech.
Kathy Shaw
donated$25.00
Thursday, February 02, 2012
Road to Recovery, Inc.
donated$100.00
Thursday, February 02, 2012
All the best, Vicki!
Lissa M Kivisto
donatedHidden Amount
Thursday, February 02, 2012
Sandy Amado Rubin
donated$25.00
Thursday, February 02, 2012
Thinking about you my dear friend.
Sandy Amado Rubin
rick s
donated$25.00
Thursday, February 02, 2012
Vicki, I have long admired you strength and courage in the face of enormous odds, so I know you'll win this one too.
God bless
Rick S
Survivor 9152
Chana
donated$200.00
Thursday, February 02, 2012
Pam Herstein
donatedHidden Amount
Thursday, February 02, 2012
Only met you once, but I feel I know you thru FB. I don't have the medical issues you do, but my daughter has faced more than her share of medical emergencies, procedures & surgeries. Fortunately we have insurance for her. Best of luck to you!
Rebetzin Bobbie Lanner
donatedHidden Amount
Tuesday, January 31, 2012
Vicki,
You have overcome so many hurdles in your life and assisted so many people.
I pray that it should be G-d's will that you should prevail and triumph at this life
changing opportunity being afforded to you so that you may return better than ever!
The world needs people like you.
Love,
Bobbie
Phyllis Sadwin
donatedHidden Amount
Friday, January 27, 2012
Dear Vicki,
I am so sorry to hear about your health problem. May you have a complete and speedy recovery. You have so much more important work to do and so many that need your help. More importantly, you deserve to enjoy life!!
Wishing you the best.
Phyllis Sadwin
Shoshana Shamberg
donated$54.00
Thursday, January 26, 2012
We honor the good work you did in Baltimore.
donatedHidden Amount
Wednesday, January 25, 2012
Vicki,
Refua Shelima from Aryeh & Bracha Goetz, Baltimore
Bob Russell
donated$50.00
Tuesday, January 24, 2012
Hope this helps Vicki.
bob
Sherri Gross
donatedHidden Amount
Tuesday, January 24, 2012
Refuah Shleima.
Wanda Karriker
donated$300.00
Tuesday, January 24, 2012
Vicki, You are in my thoughts and prayers and I hope that you get the best possible outcomes in your treatment. I really appreciate all the support you have given me with my advocacy ventures over the years.
Warmly,
Wanda
Anonymous
donatedHidden Amount
Monday, January 23, 2012
Anonymous
donated$10.00
Monday, January 23, 2012
Vicki you help others find hope....it is a small gift that I can give but it comes from the heart!
Anonymous
donated$10.00
Wednesday, January 18, 2012
Chuck Blumenthal
donatedHidden Amount
Wednesday, January 18, 2012
Best of Luck.
Raffaella
donated$40.00
Wednesday, January 18, 2012
Next time we see, i Will take you out for a pizza in rome and we Will talk about our homeroom !!!
Marcia Cohn Spiegel
donated$180.00
Wednesday, January 18, 2012
Sending love and healing wishes. Marty Cohn Spiegel
esther
donatedHidden Amount
Wednesday, January 18, 2012
every little bit will help you sweet vicki! stay strong & be well. big hugs, esther
Anonymous
donated$50.00
Friday, January 13, 2012
Thanks for your great work
Anonymous
donatedHidden Amount
Thursday, January 12, 2012
Vicki, I have been praying for you every day since I found out you were sick 2 years ago. I'll always be thinking of you, and I'll always love you. Keep up your strength, faith and hope. I am sure something good will happen for you.
Bob
donated$300.00
Tuesday, January 10, 2012
Kosnoff Fasy PLLC Seattle
donated$100.00
Tuesday, January 10, 2012
Wishing you the best Vicki.
Joelle
donatedHidden Amount
Tuesday, January 10, 2012
Take care of yourself, Vicki!
Michael Armstrong
donated$50.00
Tuesday, January 10, 2012
Anonymous
donated$100.00
Tuesday, January 10, 2012
YzL
donated$18.00
Tuesday, January 10, 2012
rabbi nuchem rosenberg
donated$100.00
Tuesday, January 10, 2012
we all pray for your health
Chana
donated$200.00
Monday, January 09, 2012
Toby Myers
donated$50.00
Monday, January 09, 2012
I know how important this is.
Rita
donated$40.00
Monday, January 09, 2012
Lenny Solomon
donated$18.00
Monday, January 09, 2012
Rachel Yehuda
donated$18.00
Monday, January 09, 2012
Nancy M
donatedHidden Amount
Sunday, January 08, 2012
Dear Vicki,
You are such a gift! May you get the medical assistance you need and recover....so you can return to the most important mission that you have chosen. The world is a better place because of the work you do.
Peace!
Lisa
donated$25.00
Sunday, January 08, 2012
Anonymous
donated$10.00
Sunday, January 08, 2012
Miguel in TX
donated$25.00
Sunday, January 08, 2012
The world is a safer place for children because of you Vicki. You are loved!
Michael Brecher
donated$36.00
Sunday, January 08, 2012
LOVE You, Vicki...I'd do ANYTHING I can to help You with ANY of Your life's challenges...You were/are INDISPENSABLE in helping me with mine!
JoAnn Duvall
donatedHidden Amount
Sunday, January 08, 2012
Get Better soon Vicki.
Annie
donated$20.00
Sunday, January 08, 2012
Anonymous
donated$10.00
Saturday, January 07, 2012
Anonymous
donatedHidden Amount
Saturday, January 07, 2012
maria
donated$10.00
Saturday, January 07, 2012
Mona
donated$25.00
Saturday, January 07, 2012
Nan
donated$35.00
Saturday, January 07, 2012
Be careful driving. Thinking of you!
Linda
donated$25.00
Saturday, January 07, 2012