Delores is a single mom with two children. She has a 22-year-old son who has been dealing with social anxiety and depression since he was 15. Her daughter is 17 years old and is the exact opposite of her brother. Delores describes her as a social butterfly, a cheerleader and a true definition of school spirit.
In December 2023, Delores was diagnosed with breast cancer. While going through chemotherapy, Delores continued working at Senergy Petroleum. She has worked for them as an inventory control specialist for over 10 years. Delores remains positive and is thankful for the support she receives from Senergy Petroleum. In April 2024, Delores experienced the loss of her father. He was her primary support who often helped with taking the kids to school while she was going through chemo – this has been a major loss as she tries to adjust to life without him. Despite all, she continues to push forward through these tough times.
In need of vehicle repair assistance, Delores learned about Hands of The Carpenter (Hands) through Growing Home, a non- profit organization where she receives rental assistance. On June 6, 2024, Delores applied for the TLC program requesting repairs for a 1993 Cadillac Deville that she recently purchased for $1,500. She had poor credit, which made it difficult to finance a newer vehicle. At the time, this was the only affordable option. The vehicle was 30 years old with many needed repairs, and the cost far exceeded the value of the vehicle. Hands recommended she apply to the Lift UP program.
Delores did not lose hope, she applied for the Lift UP program and was approved. Next, she was faced with a shortage of funds to purchase a vehicle. Hands provided information to her about Colorado Credit Union (CCU), a partner of Hands, and encouraged her to apply. Good news came from CCU, they approved the financing of the vehicle she was interested in purchasing.
On August 20, 2024, Delores was placed in a 2006 Chevy Equinox at Hands West location. Delores says, “Hands is amazing, a God send.” The following week, August 27th, Delores went into surgery for a double mastectomy. The biggest concern for Delores while hospitalized was for her son, who suffers from social depression. She spends several hours with him in the evening to ensure he is okay so that he can get through the night.
After losing her father, her mother stepped up to help. She lives in the same apartment complex right across from Delores where she assists with Delores’ recovery and helps with her son. Delores’ daughter is also a great support. But as a mother she is always concerned for her family. She remains optimistic and believes she will get through this. Delores is now on the road to recovery from surgery and is doing well.
“Hands is one of the greatest organizations to exist in helping single moms, they are caring and have made me feel positive about my situation when I thought there wasn’t a good outlook.”
