Roanoke Times
Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: SUNDAY, December 11, 1994 TAG: 9412120003
SECTION: VIRGINIA PAGE: B1 EDITION: METRO
SOURCE: BETSY BIESENBACH STAFF WRITER
DATELINE: LENGTH: Medium
Last year, when she needed a set of dentures to replace her teeth, which were broken and decayed, she didn't have the $400 to pay for them.
So Curd came to the Presbyterian Community Center for help. There, she was given $50 from the Good Neighbors Fund, and caseworkers found the rest of the money for the dentures through other charities.
Curd has been coming to the Presbyterian Community Center in Southeast Roanoke off and on for many years. She has been given food from the center's pantry, clothing from the clothes closet, and help with rent and utility payments.
Curd grew up in Roanoke but lived in Richmond for six years during the 1970s. She has had a difficult life. She married for the first time at age 16 and was divorced by the time she was 21. She suffered through several abusive relationships and has been homeless more than once. She has slept in shelters and on park benches many times, she said.
In 1980, she was diagnosed with breast cancer, and because her life has been so chaotic, she wasn't able to finish her reconstructive surgery until a few years ago. She has been hospitalized several times for psychiatric problems, including depression.
When she was able, she held a variety of jobs. When she couldn't find regular work, she often would go to stores and other businesses and ask for odd jobs in exchange for food or a cup of coffee, Curd said.
Since that time, she has earned her General Equivalency Diploma and has taken classes at Virginia Western Community College.
Today, with the help of the Presbyterian Community Center, Curd has settled into an apartment where she has lived the past two years.
"I have it all to myself. I like to be independent," she said.
No longer able to work, she spends her time visiting friends and socializing around town. She doesn't watch much TV, she said.
"I'm saving that for when I get old."
Curd often comes to the Community Center just to talk.
"This place is great, just fantastic," she said.
Despite her medical and financial problems, Curd looks happy and healthy. She smiles frequently, too. It's a brilliant smile that lights up her whole face.
Curd said she is very grateful for her new teeth.
"Everyone wants to be able to look nice."
Checks should be made payable to Good Neighbors Fund and mailed to Roanoke Times & World-News. P.0. Box 1951, Roanoke 24008.
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by CNB