By Cathy Hurst, Administrative Assistant to COO
Ann and Angela Gray needed to relocate to Tampa, FL for Ann to receive the medical care that she needed. Daughter and caregiver, Angela, stated that it was challenging to find housing from a financial perspective, plus trying to coordinate with her job and finding a place that would allow them to bring Ann’s two little baby dogs, Sammi and Rocco. Ann was hesitant and refused to go without her two pups, who show such loving support. She didn’t want to be without them during this difficult time. Everything that was involved in their situation was, as Angela put, “emotional all around, 360 degrees of emotional!” They traveled to Tampa for a couple of days in hopes of finding housing, but instead found they didn’t know how they were going to be able to make this work financially. Angela, who proudly states that her mother is her best friend, was willing to sell her house to make this happen for her mother. She didn’t care what it took at that point. For weeks they pursued their options, then made the long drive to Tampa again. They stayed in a hotel that would allow the pups, but Ann and Angela knew they would not be able to afford to stay there for the entirety of Ann’s treatments. They were hopeful while pursuing their options that something would come through for them, and it did! After being handed the keys to their Open Arms apartment
at Colonial Grand at Hampton Preserve, they cried tears of relief and joy. Ann started her treatments while Angela cared for her. It was emotional for Angela to watch her mom go through treatment knowing her mom felt like giving up everyday. But they did not give up and after three long months, Ann was able to ring the graduation bell at the hospital! She had completed her radiation treatments and received her certificate!
They have since returned home and Ann is continuing her medical care locally. They still talk about their stay with Open Arms every day. Angela discussed how thankful they both are for such a great program that helps so many people battling this disease. She wondered who has the means to pick up everything and relocate somewhere else for months to receive the necessary medical treatment. Open Arms has inspired Angela to volunteer or somehow help give back to those in need. Don’t forget about the other best friends, Sammi and Rocco! They are still enjoying being lovingly spoiled by these two precious ladies!
Ann, Sammi and Rocco
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