LASCASSAS, Tenn. (WTVF) — It's a huge undertaking. A 100-year-old home is undergoing a major restoration. The speed at which that work happens couldn't be more important.
"A lot of folks have been on this front porch and a lot of problems have been solved and probably started on this porch too, I'd say," said Zane McKee, sitting with his wife and children.
Zane's family goes way back in Lascassas, all the way back to 1910. They long ran a general store.
"If they didn't have it, you didn't need it!" he smiled.
Then, of course, there was the house.
"My great-grandparents built the house in 1925," Zane said. "The house is almost a hundred years old. It's been in my family five generations counting the kiddos here."
Shaw Construction is now handling a restoration of the house.
"When it's done, we know it'll be home," Zane said. "Probably six months or so."
There's an urgency for the house to be restored quickly. Zane wants to see it done before he loses his sight.
"I've got an eye condition I inherited," he explained. "It's somewhat rare, but not rare in my family. It's called retinitis pigmentosa. It was determined twelve years ago I was legally blind at that point. My career goals ceased pretty quickly. It's life, to be honest with you. It can give, and it can take."
Twin sons Brady and Jack are always ready to help their dad.
"I think God gave us twin boys for a reason," Zane said. "Double help. Buy one, get one, that day! I love these boys."
The genetic disorder has been seen in four generations of the family. Zane hopes a GoFundMe at Zane's Race To Restore will help with any medical and travel expenses in clinical trials. It's also aimed to help with all the construction expenses.
Zane wants to say something to others facing something very hard.
"I may lose my sight, and if nothing changes, I probably will, but I will not lose my vision because my vision is through faith," Zane said. "Don't give up. There's a better day coming, but you gotta be patient."
To help with Zane's GoFundMe, visit here.
Do you have more information about this story? You can email me at forrest.sanders@newschannel5.com.
It’s a sad reality that area animal shelters and non-profit rescue organizations face constant overcrowding -- with so many dogs, cats and other animals waiting for a forever home. Jason Lamb reports here that Metro leaders are working with those groups – including Critter Cavalry – to find solutions. I’ve fostered a dog from Critter Cavalry, so I understand the need is great. And I found my pup Domino through another local group, Proverbs Animal Rescue. Ultimately, it starts with all of us. Getting more dogs and cats spayed or neutered can help control the pet population – and ease the burden.
-Rhori Johnston
