Community Photojournalist Undergoing Chemo Loses Car

COUNTRY CLUB HILLS, IL — There’s something about Mary Compton that when you meet her, you immediately become her number one fan. She’s dedicated her life, art and career to telling the stories of residents and neighbors in pictures, and making sure their voices are heard. A talented photojournalist, Compton’s work has appeared in the Daily Southtown, 22nd Century Media, Star Newspapers and Patch.

Life has its ups and downs, and during the past year, Compton, who resides in County Club Hills, has been dealt a tough hand. Right before the world took a pause for the coronavirus pandemic, Compton was handed a cancer diagnosis.

Her chemo treatments began April 7, 2020, which she valiantly endured. Compton, a single mom, worked when she could between treatments. Her ability to financially provide for herself and her daughter has been substantially altered.

Compton is now bearing another round of chemotherapy as the cancer has returned. While she had every reason to feel discouraged, Compton remains hopeful, and even while puking from chemo treatments, she’s on Facebook seeking clothing donations for All God’s People.

A day after receiving chemotherapy treatment, Compton’s 2003 vehicle, with over 200,000 miles on it, broke down on Tuesday. After shelling out thousands of dollars in repairs over the years to keep her car running, she’s been told that it might not be repairable. Compton and her daughter, who is about to leave for her first year of college, are without transportation.

Her friend, Rayann Denlinger, has organized a GoFundMe campaign with the goal of getting this family into a reliable vehicle as soon as possible. Meanwhile, Compton continues to #FightLikeAWarrior.

To make an online donation, visit Mary Compton #FightLikeAWarrior. If you know of a reliable vehicle for this family, please email lorraine.swanson@patch.com.

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