SUNBURY — Karen and Jim have been cutting back on prescription medication to stretch their fixed income.

“We know we need them, but just can’t afford all the medicine,” said Patricia, who has applied for assistance from the Needy Family Fund sponsored by The Daily Item, Sunbury Broadcasting Corp. and Susquehanna Bank in cooperation with the Salvation Army stations in Sunbury and Milton.

The couple asked to remain anonymous for the story.

They have been battling medical problems for years. It began about a decade ago when Karen was diagnosed with breast cancer and had a double mastectomy.

Six months after the surgery, she had a stroke. Then, two years ago, she was in a car crash.

Because of her delicate medical condition, Karen has had to give up her job as a nurse aide.

“My nerves are shot,” she said.

Amid all of this, Jim suffered a heart attack, and two years ago, underwent a triple bypass.

His heart troubles flared again recently, causing him to take sick leave from Wood-Mode six weeks ago.

About 18 months ago, the couple’s daughter and her two children returned to the area and moved in with them.

Although Jim and Karen were happy to have family close by, they didn’t have the financial means to cover the costs of a larger household.

Their daughter and her children moved out a few months ago, but Karen said she and her husband are still behind on their bills and are trying to catch up.

“My husband’s little check and my Social Security isn’t enough, and we’re afraid we’re going to lose our house,” she said.

They know they’re putting their health at risk by skipping medications, Karen said, but don’t know where to turn.

They have tried to keep each other’s spirits up during this difficult period.