Lillian needs our help

My name is Analee Fuentes and I'm writing to ask for your help on behalf of Lillian Pitt. As most of you know, Portland was frozen solid during the recent ice storms in January and many structures were damaged by falling trees and frozen pipes. Mother Nature did not spare our dear Lillian's studio as I witnessed when visiting her yesterday (Jan. 27). Her home is intact but without hot water. Her studio is another story. I was shocked to find 2" of water and an active gurgling broken pipe in the studio bathroom. She could not get a plumber to service the hot water problem or fix the active studio leak until Tuesday the 30th. In the meantime and as I type this, water continues to flood her workspace. (I can supply jpegs on request). The damage is heartbreaking. She and I, and some of her caring friends/neighbors have tried to salvage what artwork and supplies we could but it is an overwhelming task. I'm organizing work parties for some of us who are local to the Portland area (look for a separate email soon), but she will also need funds for the insurance deductible on her studio, money to pay plumbers and other service people, replace basic supplies, hire conservators, and repair/replace what uninsured equipment has been lost. And then there's her collection of other's artwork! But that's another story. Lillian's mother built the studio for her in the 80's. This has been a blow to her and I'm hoping we can come together for her as she has for us. As you know, Lillian is one of the most charitable humans on the planet. Please consider this invitation as a way to give back some of what her generosity and love have given us. Thank you, Analee