Community unites to support musicians facing hardship

Culture
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Paul E. Scott Chief Executive Officer | Official Website

As the Season for Caring campaign concludes, a story of community support has emerged around Ed and Victoria Hammill, two local musicians from Austin. Their experience highlights the challenges faced by working musicians and how communities can come together to provide assistance.

For decades, Ed and Victoria have filled their mornings with music, playing guitars, keyboard, violin, viola, and ukulele. Their 31-year marriage mirrors their deep artistic connection. However, their lives changed dramatically in January 2019 when Ed was involved in a severe car accident. This incident led to multiple surgeries, ongoing rehabilitation, and memory challenges.

Victoria, aged 65, has shown resilience by balancing her full-time role as a music teacher while caring for Ed, who is 73. They reside in a modest one-bedroom apartment in Pflugerville that doubles as a home and music studio. The limited space poses challenges for teaching.

Despite having Medicare Advantage coverage, they face substantial out-of-pocket medical expenses. They rely on Ed's Social Security benefits and Victoria's teaching income while managing her health issues such as a leaky heart valve. Nevertheless, they remain hopeful. "I've gotten through it with faith," Ed said. "And with Victoria. She grabbed the bull by the horns, and then I knew I would get through it. The will to live is really strong."

The Health Alliance for Austin Musicians (HAAM) recognized the Hammills' situation and nominated them for community support. Their needs include bathroom essentials, filing cabinets, music-related equipment for Victoria's business, housing cost assistance, and help with medical expenses.

Throughout the holiday season, the Austin community demonstrated its appreciation for local musicians by supporting the Hammills. Their story serves as a reminder of how music and community can offer healing and hope during difficult times.

Gratitude goes to the King family for donating a power lift chair and Dave Mauldin for providing a room divider screen along with home repairs like mounting their TV on the wall to save space.

HAAM extends thanks to Firehouse Animal Center - Round Rock; Kelly Lane Branch of University Federal Credit Union; dentist Dr. Kavin Kelp; Factory Mattress; and others who donated goods or services. Donations can be made via an Amazon wish list or direct cash contributions at https://statesmansfc.kimbia.com/statesmanseasonforcaring.

The Austin American-Statesman is also thanked for its continued support of local communities through its Season for Caring program.