OAK PARK, Mich. (WXYZ) - Millions of people watched as Judy and Larry Vardon came home to a completely renovated home that would help them better raise their blind and autistic son.
The renovation was featured on a two-hour episode of "Extreme Makeover: Home Edition" that set ratings records for the show. But now, just four years later, the family could lose the home to foreclosure.
IN THE VIDEO PLAYER ON THE RIGHT, CHRISTY McDONALD SAYS THEIR STORY HAS TOUCHED SO MANY PEOPLE, AND FINANCIAL HELP IS POURING IN
ALSO, SEE THE ACTION NEWS STORY FROM 2004 ON THE VARDON FAMILY AND THEIR "EXTREME MAKEOVER"
The family's financial troubles stem from a mortgage payment that has almost doubled since their home makeover, and medical insurance that doesn't cover 16-year-old son Lance's autism treatments. Larry Vardon is also in danger of losing his job if the auto air package doesn't come through. The sole provider for his family, Larry works are Chrysler's Sterling Heights stamping plant.
Through a sign language interpreter, Judy Vardon says, "I'm afraid I'm going to lose my house now. This house really belongs to Lance. This is his environment. He can't speak out for himself, and I hope we can save this house."
According to ABC, 20.5 million viewers saw Ty Pennington and his crew led rehabilitate the Vardons' 980-square-foot house from the inside out, including installing cameras and flat-screen monitors that allow the Vardons to monitor Lance.
Since the makeover, the couple has refinanced the mortgage, and their monthly payments have nearly doubled - from $1,200 to $2,300. They also have debts of $20,000 for Lance's therapy alone.
Judy says, "We didn't have bad spending habits. My husband got laid off for a time, and insurance wouldn't cover Lance's autism therapy and some other things like his vision and special dental work."
The Vardons are working with a nonprofit group that helps families negotiate a lower mortgage rate.
Friends have also set up a fund to help the Vardons. If you would like to help, contact the Friends of the Vardon Family Fund, P.O. Box 721084, Berkley, Mi 48071-0084.
