By Emily Luxen
MT. JULIET, Tenn.-A project that has been years in the making, and required
a lot of assistance from people around the country, is almost complete. A
Mt. Juliet family is about to have a new home that is customized to help their
three children with cystic fibrosis breathe a little easier.
"We've tried our best and we've done all we know to do, and a lot of
people have helped us," said Greg McDougal. "We just want this to be
a safe place for our kids."
McDougal and his family travel around the country as part of the Work of a
Carpenter Ministry. They sing and share their story. The project
started as a way to sell CD's featuring their music, but it turned into much
more.
"People just really know how to come to the aid to those who need help,"
said McDougal.
Suddenly, donations started coming in from around the country. The floors of
the home were sold to the McDougals at a discount, and many of the other
supplies were donated. Now, after four long years, the project is almost
complete.
"Our hope is to be able to take all that has come our way and pay it
forward," said McDougal.
After living on the road in an RV or rental homes, the McDougals finally
have a place of their own. It features hardwood floors instead of carpet
and a specialized air filtration system that will help reduce mold and
allergens.
"We've been in the hospital 60 days since February," said
McDougal. "It has been a tough season."
The family hopes to have the entire project completed in the next
week. They still plan to travel the country, singing and sharing their
faith.
"With our kids we just try and take each day and win that day,"
said McDougal. "We have packed a lot in, and we are grateful for
that."
