“Things I never dreamed would come to me. SNAP has made my life easier in a lot of ways,” John admitted. “The blessings in my life. It really has been the blessing in my life.”
JOHN – SNAP CLIENT
JOHN’S STORY: MORE THAN A HOUSE. SNAP’S IMPACT IN A VETERAN’S LIFE.
Step into John’s home, and you’re immediately transported to a space rich with memories of his time in Southeast Asia. Adorning the walls are numerous porcelain vases, silk tapestries, ceremonial swords, and carved Buddhas—a collection he began during his years of military service.
“It all started when I was stationed on Okinawa,” John says with a gentle smile, reminiscing about his Air Force days. “My experience as a veteran was very positive.”
But behind this eclectic trove of treasured items lies a deeper story—a life marked by service, resilience, and an unwavering spirit.
Now seventy-six years old, John was born in Spokane. His family moved thirteen times before he graduated high school. Seeking stability, he joined the Air Force in 1968, serving as a physician’s assistant in Vietnam until 1974.
“They asked for volunteers to go to Cam Ranh Bay because of the Tet Offensive. I said I would,” John recalled.
It was there he met his wife, Julie, a nurse from Cincinnati. They married and had two children together. However, navigating the challenges of work, school, and raising a family took its toll, leading to their eventual divorce.
“I was working nights, going to school full-time, and trying to be a father. It was just too much,” John confessed.
Life threw John another curveball in 1997 when a car accident left him with a debilitating back injury. Forced to retire early from his nursing career at the VA hospital, he faced unexpected financial hardship.
“I was working at hospice at the time,” he remembers, “but after the accident, I just couldn’t handle the physical demands of lifting patients anymore.”
Left with limited income, he turned to a small flower shop venture to stay afloat.
“It was more of a glorified hobby, it was a reason to get up and go,” he laughs, “it kept me going until I qualified for disability.”
In 2003, thanks to the G.I. Bill, John managed to purchase a modest home in Spokane. But as the years passed, maintaining it became increasingly difficult. Roof leaks, outdated windows, and a failing stove threatened his comfort and safety. That’s when a neighbor suggested he reach out to SNAP.
“I’m so eternally grateful for what they’ve done for me,” John says, his eyes shining with gratitude. Initially hesitant to seek help, he was overwhelmed by the kindness and efficiency of the SNAP team.
“They treat you like family,” he adds warmly. “They just wrap their arms around you. What they give you comes from their heart. They’re just giving people.”
Over the years, SNAP has transformed John’s home, installing energy-efficient windows, repairing the roof, and providing a new stove and air conditioner. These improvements didn’t just make his home more livable—they increased its value from $50,000 to $250,000.
“It gave me a completely different lifestyle to be able to enjoy from inside the comfort of my home,” John reflects, describing the profound impact of these upgrades. “I live alone, but I’m not afraid because I know there’s a community behind me.”
The most recent changes have focused on making John’s home safer as he ages. A sturdy railing now lines his front steps, and his bathroom has been fitted with grab bars and other accessibility features. These updates will allow him to age in place with dignity.
“My bathroom is the biggest joy in my life. I was just really, really pleased this morning when I was in that shower,” he shared. “It’s unbelievable what these people will do for you if they know that you need it.”
Danny Shea, SNAP’s Single-Family Rehab Program Manager, vividly remembers John’s gratitude when the latest project began.
“When I first told him what we were going to do, he had tears in his eyes and all he said was that he was going to hug me,” Danny recalls. “It’s such a warming feeling to help people that need help, and that’s what SNAP’s for.”
For John, SNAP’s support has been nothing short of life changing.
“Things I never dreamed would come to me. SNAP has made my life easier in a lot of ways,” he admitted. “The blessings in my life—it really has been the blessing in my life.”
Now, serving on SNAP’s advisory council, he’s dedicated to giving back and ensuring others in Spokane can find the same support.
“I have been so blessed by the people around me,” John expressed. “My only wish is that everyone in need could get the help that I’ve been able to get.”
With his home transformed and his heart full of gratitude, John’s story is one of resilience, community, and the power of support when it’s needed most. It’s a testament to how organizations like SNAP can not only change homes but also transform lives.
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