It is with great sadness that we write to let you know that Krystle Pistolis-Titus, one of our most recent homeowners, has passed away after a 2 year struggle with cancer.
During this build, Krystle struggled with many health issues (cancer, a brain tumor, and a stroke). But rather than complain, she chose to focus on what she could do. When she could no longer work, she took night classes at a community college, working towards her nursing degree. When she could no longer attend classes due to treatment, she focused her time on her Habitat home (she tried to come to the Habitat site to work only a few days after having brain surgery!).
During hospitalizations and health issues, the build was a positive thing for she and her family to focus on. “I just can’t wait to be in my own home!” she said while painting the trim a week before the closing. During this time she shared about some of the more difficult places she had lived…a campground, in a trailer with no bathroom and little heat. She talked of the simple joys that she was looking forward to in her Habitat home…being able to have a grill out on the front porch, having room for pets, and having a yard for her children to play in.
When Krystal was diagnosed with cancer for the second time during the build, the house completion date was moved up. Krystal, Josh, Zoe and Leah were able to move in on May 28th. And although it was a short time, Krystal was able to finally realize her dream of homeownership and enjoy 3 months in her new home. Thank you to all the volunteers, donors, and supporters who helped make that possible.
Although we are very sad to have Krystal gone from our midst, we will continue our support of this young family. Krystal’s husband Josh and their two young daughters Zoe (4) and Leah (2) will continue to live in their home. Pemi-Valley Habitat is dedicated to helping them through this difficult time.
We ask that you keep them in your thoughts and prayers over this next year. And we thank everyone who helped to make Krystal’s dream of homeownership a reality.
