As Steve Phillipos always says, “Do you believe in miracles?” Well, Deanne Recklaus, a single mom of six, wasn’t so sure — until Christmas Eve.
On Dec. 24, Homewood Chevy Cares held its 10th annual car giveaway. Each year, the company selects one individual in need based on submitted stories that explain their difficult situation, and how a car would change their lives.
After reviewing hundreds of submissions between Oct. 14 and Dec. 9, they announced Recklaus as the winner on Dec. 20. Recklaus was nominated by her friend, Christina K.
On Christmas Eve, Recklaus and her daughters were presented with their brand new 2025 Chevy Trax.
“Wait, there’s more,” Phillipos said. On top of the expense of the car being paid for, the company announced that they would also cover the taxes, fees and the first three months of the car insurance. Recklaus was shocked by this information and shed tears as she held her two daughters standing next to her in an emotional embrace.
Recklaus’ 14-year-old daughter, Autumn, was diagnosed with systemic juvenile lupus, an autoimmune disease. Since then, she has been in and out of the hospital and needs to attend many doctor appointments, according to Recklaus.
Recklaus and her daughter have had negative experiences with the drivers of the medical car service that was provided to them, and since then have struggled to find rides on their own.
“As far as public transportation, Autumn has a very compromised immunity,” said Recklaus. With public transportation being unsafe for her daughter, their options were very limited.
“This is a glimmer of hope in the darkness that’s on us,” Recklaus said, adding, “I want to have the ability to be the mom that my kids need.” Recklaus’ new Chevy Trax is a life-changer for her, and especially for her children.
