Stranger Helps Colony Family Overcome Massive Medical Costs
THE COLONY (CBSDFW.COM) - One week ago, the Stewart family admitted they were facing a tough Christmas.
Sam Stewart, 16, had to juggle home school and household finances after her mother Janet was diagnosed with an artery disease and lost her right leg.
Medical bills soared, and it wasn't long before they received a letter in the mail threatening foreclosure on their home.
But their prayers were answered by an individual from Denton County.
"He knocked on my door Christmas Eve night at 6 o'clock," Janet Stewart said, smiling ear to ear.
It may not have been Santa from the North Pole, or even a kind person dressed as the holiday mascot. But this man – who asked to remain anonymous – was there with his family to help the Stewarts.
"I was in awe! I was in disbelief! I was like, are you kidding me? Is this real? He said, 'it's very real,'" Janet Stewart recalled. "He said, 'I want you to get well and have this I want Sam to go to school and not have to worry about pressure financially.'"
Janet has an artery disease, and medical bills prompted Sam to get a job to cover payments.
Almost a year ago, Janet had to have her right leg amputated as a result of her disease. And because it didn't heal properly, she now has to have another surgery Wednesday.
Medical bills, unsurprisingly, continue to climb. As such, Sam picked up the biggest load.
"I had to grow up and I have to pay for everything and pay for everything for myself," Sam said last week. "I have to worry and pay bills on time and figure out what needs to be paid today, or what's past due."
Sam's sister Tabitha Marchbank has also helped financially. But she's also supporting a family of her own.
Since their mother lost her leg, she hasn't been able to work. Sam is now juggling home school and a job. Her plan is to graduate early, and – along with her sister – try to catch up with all the bills.
But the family got a bit of help on Christmas Eve.
"They brought my mortgage current. They brought my auto payment current and paid off my daughters car," Janet said.
It was more than what the family had wished for. They say they just hope one day they can repay the generosity.
"I've always believed in miracles I just happen to really get one yes," Janet said.
The family set up a fund for donations at any Wells Fargo as The Janet Stewart Foundation.
