We have to remember Shasta and Elizabeth in cases like these. AM obviously went into this wanting to keep Alexandria and Kyliyah -- for whatever reason? I can only pray that he really, in some demented way, believes he is their father and won't harm them. I know that is hoping for a lot because in my heart, I know why he wanted these girls... but I can hope. Shasta and Elizabeth made it through. Alexandria and Kyliyah can too! I'll personally donate to a trust for any medical care they will need when they are brought home. It won't be a lot... but it will be something and I just want them home!
BBM
What a kind thought!
I hope, though, that you will consider not restricting your gift.
When Shasta Groene came home, there was quite a trust fund that was specifically earmarked for therapy and education. Which seems like a wise provision, yes?
But her father, Steve Groene, contracted cancer. He didn't have medical insurance and his medical bills ate up their income. For awhile, he and Shasta were actually homeless. Even though there was close to $100K in Shasta's trust fund, the stipulations attached to it meant it could not be used for housing, food or other expenses of every day life.
And then for another period of time, the only place Steve could afford to rent backed onto the interstate, the same interstate that Joseph Duncan spotted them from. It was hugely triggering for Shasta to live there, as you can imagine.
Any child being homeless is horrible and a blot of shame on our nation as a whole. But for a little girl who went through all Shasta did just rips at my heart.
Fortunately, a reporter was doing a followup story and found out that Steve and Shasta had been homeless. The community rallied and donations were made to build them a lovely house in a nice location.
I wish so much that the USA would take an example from Austria (amongst other nations). When Elisabeth Fritzl and her children were discovered, they were provided with medical care and then housing and an income (and round the clock security) by the state. This allowed them to choose to maintain their privacy, so they weren't forced to sell their story to the media in order to survive.
Until or unless the USA makes such provisions for the victims of serious crime, I hope that kind hearted people who make donations keep in mind that sometimes life happens while other plans are being made.