Support crucial for victims of trust theft

Four months ago, 77 people’s lives were turned upside down when they received word that their whole financial security had been stolen from their trust accounts at Desert State. This news not only affected those 77, but also the ones who love and care for them. My mom and I are among those affected. In the midst of all the chaos and emotional upheaval that comes with a situation like this, my trust in god remains strong, knowing that He will not forsake us. I am now writing in hopes of bringing some encouragement to everyone and to acknowledge some wonderful people who are walking this out with us.

First and foremost, we must thank Christopher Moya, Financial Institutions Division acting director, who ordered a financial examination of Desert State. What would have become of us had it not been for this man, who revealed that which was done in secret! I believe he has had much emotional turmoil himself over this because his compassion pours out to all. Let us remember him in prayer, as he is now “fighting our battle.”

I also wish to thank (Journal investigative reporter) Colleen Heild, who has done an amazing job at keeping the public aware of our dilemma. She, too, has felt our pain as she has personally interviewed us and has had to write some tear-jerking “news.”

Last, but certainly not least, I wish to thank you who are reading this; you who have taken the interest and the time to care! Thank you to all those who have offered financial support to help with my mom’s care after reading my story on June 19. To you, and you know who you are, I thank you from the bottom of my heart for such love! This is what America is: caring for our fellow man, caring for the widowed, fatherless, homeless — which some of the “victims” could become — with such love and compassion. I am so honored and blessed beyond measure that you would reach out to me in such an amazing way.

But with that, please let me explain why I cannot receive (monetary donations) at this time. I feel as though I am being thrown a life raft and I am leaving the rest of the family behind in the drowning waters, with some of them not even able to reach and grab the hand stretched toward them. I just cannot bring my heart to live with that. I ask (instead) that you help all of us by continuing to be involved. Read the stories, watch the news and, should you feel it in your heart, stand by us in the public court. Sit on our side in the courtroom on Aug. 3. Let all see that the citizens of New Mexico do care about justice!

And now, I’d like to end with an encouraging word to (guardianship client) Joseph Perez. Thank you for being there on July 5. You say you will be at every court hearing. This is my desire as well, but I cannot afford to fulfill it. But I will be there beside you on Aug. 3. Know that you are not alone! Nor are (fellow trust clients) the Ramirez family, J.W., those of the Ayudando guardianship who now have another battle to face and the others of us. Everyone I’ve spoken with from that area, from business owners to private citizens, have all shown wonderful love toward all of us.