PayDay Brown County - our stories
Diana Angerstein & Her Aunt
Diana Angerstein, who joined Payday Brown County earlier this year, recently shared that she was considering taking a break from her membership in order to financially help her aunt, who is battling cancer. Diana’s aunt, age 82, has no siblings and has been struggling with mounting expenses tied to treatments and daily living costs. Diana had already stepped in to cover her aunt’s water bill and planned to begin paying additional utility expenses herself. After hearing the situation, the board approved supporting Diana and her aunt with a donation. When Diana was informed, she became emotional and initially asked for the money to be used to help someone else. Instead, she was reminded that Payday Brown County exists to support families exactly like hers. Diana later shared a heartfelt message expressing gratitude and explaining the funds would be used for utility bills and healthier groceries while her aunt continues treatment. Most encouraging of all, recent CT scans showed the cancer is shrinking, and doctors are optimistic about remission.
Because of your generosity, Diana’s aunt can focus more fully on healing.
Becca Mendez – Lifeguard Ambulance
Becca Mendez, who works for Lifeguard Ambulance alongside Payday board member Kyle Riley, is currently battling cancer.
Becca underwent surgery on May 14th and is expected to be out of work until sometime in June. With limited paid time off available, the loss of income has created additional financial stress during an already overwhelming season. After hearing about Becca’s situation, the board approved a donation to help cover bills and household expenses while she recovers. Alvin, Becca’s supervisor, delivered the check personally. According to Kyle, Alvin was deeply moved and amazed by what Payday Brown County was doing for Becca.
Please continue praying for Becca’s healing, strength, and recovery in the weeks ahead.
Nixon Hernandez & Family
Nixon Hernandez, the 12-year-old son of Rachel and Caleb Absher and a student at Brookesmith, was recently diagnosed with lymphoma.
In late April, Nixon was admitted to Cook Children’s Hospital for extensive testing, including an echocardiogram, EKG, CT scan, PET scan, and biopsy as doctors worked to determine a full diagnosis and treatment plan. Rachel and Caleb have remained by Nixon’s side through this process, and the board approved a donation to help ease some of the financial stress they are facing during this season. A family friend hand-delivered the check to them at Cook Children’s Hospital on April 30th, and the family expressed deep gratitude for the support and prayers.
Please continue lifting Nixon and his family up in prayer.
Peyton Mueller – HPU Student Athlete
Peyton Mueller, a freshman at Howard Payne University and member of the HPU Women’s Soccer team, was injured in a tragic snow-related accident at Gordon Wood Stadium on January 25, 2026. What began as simple winter fun turned into a life-altering event. Peyton suffered a severed spine and is now partially paralyzed. Within days of the accident, she underwent three surgeries to stabilize and repair the severe damage. Her recovery journey will take years. Payday Brown County voted to gift money to assist Peyton’s parents, Ireland and Aaron Mueller, with the significant expenses they are facing. The check was delivered to her soccer coach, Brandon Bageley, who ensured it quickly reached her family.
In moments like this, financial assistance cannot undo tragedy — but it can lighten the burden.
The Campbell Family–Brownwood Fire Department
Matt Campbell's family, a Brownwood firefighter, was involved in a serious accident. His wife, Mashawn, their two sons, and mother-in-law were hospitalized in the Metroplex.Their injuries were significant:
- One son suffered a lacerated spleen and diaphragm and required spinal fusion surgery.
- The other son also required spinal fusion surgery.
- Mashawn sustained a broken wrist and broken arm.
During this incredibly difficult time, the board approved to help the Campbell family. The check was delivered to Chief Hicks at the Brownwood Fire Department on January 12, 2026, who personally ensured it reached Matt quickly.
Supporting those who serve our community is a privilege — and together, we were able to do just that.
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Joshua Jackson
If you’ve shopped at Brookshire’s, there’s a good chance you’ve been greeted by Joshua Jackson’s joyful and friendly spirit. A 2010 graduate of Brownwood High School, Josh is a familiar and uplifting presence in our community. A few weeks ago, Josh was riding his bike across Avenue K when his brakes failed. He entered traffic and was struck by a vehicle. The accident left him with multiple serious injuries — a broken arm in several places, a broken leg, a head injury, and a severely damaged knee.
He was transported to Abilene, where he has undergone multiple surgeries. While his condition is improving, he faces a long road to recovery and is expected to be out of work for 6–10 weeks.
The board approved to help Josh with medical bills, therapy, groceries, and daily essentials during his recovery.
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Chip & Karen Barker–Chipster’s BBQ
Chip and Karen Barker, known for their generous service to the community through BBQ fundraisers, are now facing a difficult season of their own.
Karen, who is diabetic, has been hospitalized due to complications and is facing ongoing medical challenges. After learning of their situation through board member Debbie Morelock, the board approved to assist with current and future medical expenses.
It’s a privilege to give back to those who have given so much to others.
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Stacy Reitz
On March 15th, the board received information about Stacy Reitz, who has recently been diagnosed with colon and rectal cancer.
Although the diagnosis is in the early stages, Stacy has already missed significant work due to testing and appointments, and financial strain has begun. As treatment begins, those challenges will only increase.
The board approved to support Stacy during this time.
Standing in the gap during moments like this is exactly why Payday Brown County exists.
Amy Affolter & Family
On March 25th, Debbie shared the story of Amy and Kyle Affolter. Kyle unexpectedly passed away at just 34 years old. Kyle worked as a supervisor at Superior Essex. The day before his passing, he wasn’t feeling well at work. Though encouraged to seek medical attention, he chose to finish his day and never mentioned his symptoms at home. That night seemed completely normal — but the next morning, as his alarm went off, Kyle reached over to turn it off, grabbed his chest, and passed away. Kyle and Amy had been together since they were just 15 years old. Amy is now a stay-at-home mom caring for their 3-year-old daughter, navigating an unimaginable loss.
The board approved to support Amy during this time.
We continue to lift Amy up in prayer and trust that support will surround her in the days ahead.