Over 2,600 people recently rallied together to help 110-year-old Texas World War II veteran Richard Overton stay in his home for a bit longer. Due to old age, family members feared having to put Overton, who has lived in Austin since the 1940s, in an assisted living facility.
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They decided, however, that they couldn't let this happen yet, and turned to the public for help. According to Fox News, a cousin of Overton's set up a GoFundMe page in December. The campaign is raising funds that will cover the cost of in-home care for Richard, who is believed to be the oldest living World War II veteran.
The crowdfunding page showcases photos from special moments in Overton's life, like meeting Obama at the White House and being honored at the 2016 U.S. Army All-American Bowl.
"We all knew that if you move Richard out of his home, he'd die," said Volma Overton Jr, Richard's cousin. "That home is everything for him," he told ABC News. The beloved veteran likes to spend his days on the front porch, chatting with those who come by. Despite his old age, he surprisingly has no major medical issues.
"We wanted him to be able to stay where he knows and loves," Volma Overton's wife, Shirley, also told ABC. "He still walks and talks and does everything. He's so much fun to be around."
Richard's amazing story resonated with the public. After all, helping those who have so bravely served our country is a cause close to many people's hearts. The result? Well, the GoFundMe page has garnered 13,000 shares thus far. Furthermore, the family has raised over $131,000 in a little over a month.
Volma Overton said he hired an in-home senior care assistant to provide around the clock support. According to ABC News, one year of coverage will cost around $180,000.
At this rate, it doesn't seem like it will take too long for the GoFundMe page to reach that goal. Best wishes to the Overton family this year and kudos to the public for stepping up to support one of our nation's deserving veterans.
