Ernest Wahtomy

This fundraiser will benefit Ernest Wahtomy and help him to maintain his home and family as he always has and can't do on his own right now. He has never asked for anything or help of any kind. He is the man who is always there for everyone else. Ernie raised a family of seven children and is a trusted and reliable caregiver and guide to his nieces, nephews and grandchildren. As a traditional arts teacher at his tribal high school, he demonstrates his cultural knowledge of his tribal practices in the way he lives his life, and is a respected role model to students and staff. He has always responded to requests for help, to lead prayer, or make the opening blessings at tribal events. To drum, to sing, to hunt and fish for people in need, to lead in a quiet, assured way, and always to encourage, even now, when he is himself struggling with renal failure and patiently waiting and praying for the kidney transplant that could bring back his health. If you are familiar with Indian Country, you know, or at least have taken notice of, the quiet but obviously dedicated man you see leading grand entry in. Maybe you've been lucky enough to hear him pray, to see him teach, or share a campfire and the many stories and songs he is always willing to voice. Ernie is a well-practiced traditional artist, a careful and diligent warrior, who did his part as a helicopter mechanic as a United States Marine. There has never been a time that Ernie has put himself before any other, and he wouldn't ask for this help, but we, his family and friends, will ask you to donate any amount that you can to help him to pay bills, have gas to and from dialysis and other treatments, to buy food and other items at this moment when for the first time ever, he can't provide himself. Ernie and his wife Anna have always kept their doors wide open to all and have done their best to help with whatever is needed. As the season turns to winter, we ask that you help relieve his worries about providing wood and for monthly bills and food for his family in whatever amount you can spare. If you are local, maybe you wouldn't mind delivering a load of wood or whatever you can. Anything will help and be greatly appreciated. Prayer is also requested, blessings to all, in the same abundance Ernie has always done for others.