80-year-old grandmother in need receives septic tank funded by donation

CATTARAUGUS VILLAGE, NEW YORK — After more than two months without a working shower or toilet in her home, 80-year-old Sherry Camilloni just got the septic tank she needed — entirely funded by community donations.

The last two months have been a whirlwind for Sherry.

Just two weeks ago, 7 News reporter Derek Heid caught up with her at the lowest point in her life. She had been without a functioning septic tank for six weeks, had no insurance coverage, and was unable to cover the costs.

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Sherry Camilloni spoke with 7 News reporter Derek Heid about the dozens of donations that have poured in for her cause.

“I can’t shower, I can’t wash dishes, I can’t use the bathroom, nothing,” Sherry said in June.

Now, there is a much happier granny living in the village of Cattaraugus, supported by dozens of members of our community.

“Thank you doesn’t seem like enough,” Sherry said. “I just want to say thank you, thank you, thank you.”

Her grandson Jeremy started a GoFundMe to help her cover the costs of expensive home renovations.

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Jeremy Camilloni is planning to return home to WNY, so he spoke with Sherry and 7 News reporter Derek Heid on Zoom.

In just eight days, $11,119 was raised.

Jeremy told 7 News that three complete strangers donated $1,000 or more, with the highest donation being $1,250.

“(The largest donor), he and his wife, saw the clip on the news and just said, no 80-year-old woman should be living like that,” Jeremy said. “They basically looked at their bank account and decided what the most they could give to help was, and that was it.”

“I almost fell to the floor,” Sherry said. “The sympathy for me having to use a portable toilet is crazy.”

Now the money is a reality and the long awaited new septic tank has just been delivered to Sherry’s home.

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After two difficult months, Sherry Camilloni received the septic tank her home desperately needed.

“I honestly can’t believe it. I’m still so overwhelmed after all this,” Sherry said.

…Bringing up the spirits of a widowed grandmother who was down on her luck.

“She seems happier,” Jeremy said.

…which means your neighbor’s showers are numbered.

“I just can’t do it anymore, I just can’t,” Sherry said.

…And there are only a few days left to use the portable toilet.

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The only bathroom in Sherry Camilloni’s home is a portable toilet located just inside the front door.

“We’re just happy to see that portable toilet gone from the yard,” Jeremy said.

Installation of the new waste tank is expected to be completed this week.