Sandra’s Story

Sandra grew up on the outer Cape and, except for living a few years north of Boston with her then-husband, has spent her life here. She stated, “I am very proud to be a fourth generation Cape Codder on both sides of my family.” She attended a Cape Cod tech school and got a business certificate at Cape Cod Community College. After getting divorced, she moved back to the Cape and has continued to work in various office managerial positions even through a multiple sclerosis (MS) diagnosis.

“So far I am very lucky. My mobility hasn’t been compromised until recently, but the exhaustion and ongoing fatigue means I can’t hold a job outside the home,’ she said. She also is grateful that the COVID pandemic didn’t affect her health-wise. Her neurologist insisted she go on disability a few months ago to slow down the progression of the disease.

Sandra is thankful she lives in an affordable rental and says most of the time she makes it ok, but her checking account was hacked two months ago. Her savings were wiped out and her rent was due. She reached out to Lower Cape Outreach Council. She had used LCOC several times in the past six years when she hit a rough patch, so was familiar with their caring staff and helpful attitude. Previously she had gotten help for an insurance bill, a car repair and once for partial rent. This time she asked for one month rent, but because she would be struggling until her checking account was cleared up, Lower Cape Outreach Council paid two months of her rent to cover through the issue was solved.

She put the call in to LCOC and got a call right back. “I cried when I got the call. They helped me with my It took so much of the burden and stress off me,” she said. Stress and worry are the worst things for someone with MS and she is incredibly thankful.

“I do have to go back to work to survive, but there are some interesting opportunities where I can work from home. I have advocates who are looking out for me and helping me negotiate the employment and disability maze. I have been bedridden lately on a few occasions so I am looking for something that will allow me to work when I can,” she explained.

“Lower Cape Outreach Council has been my absolute savior and I can’t sing their praises enough. I am not very emotional but every time I think how they have helped me with compassion and no judgement, I get teary. It is so hard to ask for help, they make it easier,” Sandra said. She solemnly vowed to pay them back if she is ever able. This writer assured her she was helping by telling her story, so that others know about both making donations and contacting Lower Cape Outreach Council for help.

Translate »