Susan has been a dedicated supporter of Bellingham Food Bank. For nearly a decade, she and her husband Richard sent a monthly check with a kind note attached.
Growing up Susan lived in several places due to her father's job. As a young adult, she eventually landed in Los Angeles and began working for a property development company. And it was in LA that she met Richard. She said she was attracted by his sense of humor, and they soon began dating. They were married three years later.
By the mid-1990s the Korns found themselves in the Northwest. Susan's step-mother needed in-home care, but they didn't want to live in the crowded city of Seattle. So, they drove north searching for a place they liked, not stopping until they found Bellingham.
Susan is quiet and petite. But don't let appearances fool you. She is also tough; the past year is proof. Richard became ill and passed away on January 5th, 2014. And on January 17th of last year, on her birthday, Susan was injured in a fall and ended up in a rehabilitation facility for several weeks.
When many might have given up, Susan decided to fight. And by October, she had regained her health and was on a plane bound for Costa Rica. On that trip she experienced many thrills, including being awakened by howler monkeys, riding zip lines, and having newly-hatched turtles dart across her feet as they made their way to the sea.
Although her life changed significantly in 2014, Susan's dedication to helping others remains constant. She continues to donate and also volunteers here once a week because, "Food is a basic need, even more than shelter." She also gives because when Richard was young, he and his family had to rely on public assistance. He knew what it felt like to need help.
Susan says she's happy to begin a new year and be of service. We are inspired by Susan's caring and indomitable spirit and are grateful for all of her and Richard's support.
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