Wayne's Home Renovation Fundraiser

My name is Phil Witker. I have tried living my life by two common-sense principles.

• "A Friend in Need is a Friend Indeed" is a phrase that describes the most important characteristic of a true friend. Most noteworthy, the phrase means that a true friend is the one who helps someone at a time of need. Such a friend is certainly a precious asset in an individual's life.

• "Treat others as you would want to be treated." The Golden Rule is a fundamental ethical principle, also known as an ethics of reciprocity. It's a universal principle that's considered to be the most prevalent and universal moral principle in human history.

Wayne Flathers had 2 strokes back-to-back in June. The first was on June 1st and the second on June 16th, 2024. While the 1st stroke was scary, the 2nd stroke was revengeful. Wayne is currently 56 (05/09/1968) years old, and most of us think of Wayne as a force to be reckoned with. Growing up, Wayne was a highly skilled athlete who excelled in football, wrestling, and track & field. After his athletic days, he began working in the concrete trades... fitting for a person of his athleticism and strength. Wayne worked extremely hard for everything he had to provide for his family. Anything left over he would disperse to those who needed his help. A guy who would take his shirt off his back to give to someone in need. His brute strength has been used like that of a sheepdog protecting his flock rather than that of the wolf trying to kill it.

In late October, my wife Erin and I visited Wayne and Kelly in South Carolina for the first time since he had his strokes. Their home is a beautiful place in a great neighborhood with an amazing porch and space for friends and family to gather and feel the warmth of their hospitality. We saw firsthand the mental and physical obstacles that they are facing. Like most homes, their home was not built with the ADA accommodations for basic human needs.

The stroke has left Wayne in a wheelchair without the use of his left side. He has trouble standing up and cannot stay standing for any length of time. He needs help cutting his food, brushing his teeth, and using the restroom. He cannot get into the tub or step over the walk-in shower because he cannot pick his leg up. His mobility is extremely limited, and Kelly struggles to help him due to the lack of space that is needed for Wayne. The doorways are too small, the sink does not allow him to get underneath with a wheelchair, the toilets require accessibility, and the shower needs to be a roll-in shower with grab bars and a shower bench. Basic living conditions that most of us take for granted every day.

It was that day that I asked Kelly if we could help. Then on our drive back from South Carolina to Ohio, my wife and I discussed what they needed. I have organized 4 contractors to provide estimates to perform the work necessary for Wayne to live out his new normal. One contractor has stood out amongst the rest. He comes highly recommended, and his generosity brought the total cost down; $5,000.00 lower than the next contractor (who also was highly recommended) and reduced profit by $2,500.00. This still leaves a renovation budget of $25,000.00 to get Wayne the proper home modifications for basic living essentials.

I have asked Wayne and Kelly to be transparent about their financial situation. They do not have the means to remodel their home. Their cost-of-living burdens will be subsidized by the disability benefits they will receive. However, the day-to-day living issues that come from having a stroke need to be addressed immediately.

"Wayne Flathers Benefit Account" is now set up and donations are requested. The contractor can start as early as January 6th, 2025. Please help Wayne and Kelly so that renovations can begin immediately!

You can pay via GoFundMe, VENMO @PHILP-WITKER or write a check to 5/3 Bank Attn: Wayne Flathers' Benefit Account. 1365 Michigan Avenue Waterville, OH 43566