The Hipp family (Bill and Nicole) survived a devastating house fire in December 2010 and lost everything. At that time, the community banded together and donated clothing, toys, and financial assistance to help them. Shortly after they were relocated temporarily, their newborn son had respiratory distress and was rushed to Chicago. He is healthy now, but the seriousness of his condition weighed heavily on the already stricken family. Unfortunately, they would soon find out their problems were not over yet.
Nicole was diagnosed with stage 3 breast cancer in July 2011. She was only 28 years old at the time. Since then, she’s finished chemotherapy and is recovering from major surgery. She faces radiation treatments and more surgery in the near future as well as extensive follow-up. She is a graduate of Gavit High School in Hammond and worked at Lake Ridge Clinic in Griffith before her diagnosis. Her husband, Bill, works for Hulcher Services, Inc. in Hammond. They have been together since high school. Family and friends organized a Benefit to help with medical expenses in February at the VFW Hall in Porter. They would like to thank all the businesses and individuals who made it a wonderful event.
They have been rebuilding their home in ‘The Village of Burns Harbor’ for the past year and hoped to be back “home” by now but there have been ongoing construction delays. Recently, the builder filed for bankruptcy and was unable to finish their house. They were left without money to finish the flooring, interior doors, plumbing, vanities, countertops, and kitchen appliances. According to Nicole’s mother, Nada Vukobratovich, some businesses and individuals have already spread the word about this situation and have solicited donations for materials and labor, adding “It’s heartwarming to see the goodness of people in an otherwise very bad situation. They face the risk of losing their home a second time because of financial and legal issues. This added stress recently placed Bill in the hospital with stroke-like symptoms. It’s been an uphill struggle for everyone; thank God he is back to work trying to get his family back home as soon as possible, but can’t do it by himself.”
Fighting this battle alone is impossible but together the community can make a difference by alleviating some of the financial burden this family is facing. A special fund was set up at Centier Bank to help them with construction and legal expenses. Donations are being accepted. If you would like to help this family, please mail or go to any branch of Centier Bank. Make checks payable to the Hipp Family Benefit Fund. Your prayers are also welcomed and very much appreciated. Thank you.