Sonoma Valley Publishing
Sonoma Tribune

Touched by the generous support of the local community, a Sonoma Valley couple who are fighting their own medical battles are reaching out to help another Valley native.

Phil and Indira Waterhouse will donate 5 percent of the February, March and April proceeds from their business, Waterhouse Painting, to the fund for Debbie Parsons Roth, who has been diagnosed with an inoperable brain tumor.

Phil Waterhouse has been diagnosed with ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig's disease - a gradual and ultimately fatal degeneration of the neurological system.

A triage nurse at Kaiser's Call Center in Vallejo, Indira Waterhouse is battling late-stage ovarian cancer that had spread to her abdomen, requiring both surgery and a debilitating course of chemotherapy.

Their Sonoma Valley friends rallied to their support. More than 500 people turned out for a Nov. 20 fund-raising event that brought in more than $30,000 to help defray the Waterhouses' mounting medical bills and to hold on to their home. A fund for them was set up at Bank of the West.

Buoyed by the local outpouring of love and assistance, the Waterhouses were also touched by the plight of Debbie Parsons Roth, daughter of longtime residents Don and Joyce Parsons.

Last fall Debbie was diagnosed with a stage III inoperable brain tumor. A 1985 graduate of Sonoma Valley High, Debbie Parsons lives in Marin with her husband, Tony Roth, and their infant son, Tanner. Contributions to provide support for the Roth family can be made at Sonoma Valley Bank or by contacting Helen or Alan Medina at Parsons Lumber & Hardware, 707 996-1008.

Established eight years ago, Waterhouse painting has two full crews with more than 88 years of combined experience in interior painting. During February, March and April, 5 percent of all proceeds will go to the Debbie Parsons Roth fund. Contact Phil at 707-996-2266 to schedule a free estimate.