Sept 8, 2023

^{William in his new Standing Shower}

The Family of William and Laura Zurakov of Woodstock, Illinois is a study of the bedrock of the construction trades. William, two of his uncles, and a cousin worked at a pool contracting firm, building and repairing swimming pools. Their eldest son worked at Holman Boiler Works (now Cleaver Brooks) before moving on to work for an HVAC contractor. He now works for a lightning protection company installing lighting systems in IBEW 134. Another son worked for a kitchen and bath contractor refinishing countertops, cabinets, and bathtubs. Their youngest son, who hopes to one day attend the University of Illinois for their welding program, worked for Encore Wire before going to work for a paving contractor.

William’s health problems began in 2013, when he was diagnosed with diabetes followed by a triple bypass in 2017. In addition, William faces back issues, stomach and kidney problems, and more. He is now limited in his ability to walk, so William and Laura set out to look for funding for a bath remodel for a walk-in shower. During their research, they discovered The Joseph Groh Foundation. This foundation was created to provide information, advocacy and financial support to people in the contracting industry who are affected by life-altering disabilities.

The foundation responded to William and Laura’s request and worked with an area contractor to fulfill their need, and the shower was installed in September 2022.

^{William's Shower Before and After the Remodel}

Once the work was complete, the family was ecstatic. Laura told the foundation “I just want to say thank you again. My husband has been taking a shower every day now and it really helps both of us. Words cannot express my gratitude.”

Unfortunately, two months later the family learned that their house’s reverse osmosis system had failed. The family was in a tight spot, as the money they had saved for repairs was used up after Covid significantly cut back Laura’s work hours. Laura once again reached out to the foundation, hoping for some additional assistance.

The foundation graciously was able to assist the family again, and partnered with a reverse osmosis equipment manufacturer to replace the damaged equipment along with a new water softener. After an unexpected several months of weather delays and contractor difficulties, the proper RO system was specified and the equipment was then ordered.

^{Laura Standing Beside the new RO System}

When everything had finally been completed, Laura told us, “Thank you for your diligence! Your organization is wonderful, and we really appreciate it. It is great to have decent water again.”

Daikin is a proud supporter of The Joseph Groh Foundation. William's story is made possible through the generous donations of the Foundation's sponsors. Light your beacon for others and become a Joseph Groh Foundation Luminary today.