When life pulls the rug out from under you the best, and sometimes only, way through the crisis is with the support of family and friends. My dear colleague Jean Kaminskas just received the news that her beloved husband, Kelly, has cancer of the appendix.  Today, gratefully, the PET scan did not show metastasis. The family was able to exhale after holding their breaths for many days since the diagnosis was made after surgery for a ruptured appendix. 

Now the journey of a major abdominal surgery, doctor appointments,  life-draining chemotherapy treatments and the road to recovery begins. 

Lucky to call ourselves Jean's work family, the urge to protect and nurture her feels natural.  We recognize that Jean is going to need time off to be fully present to Kelly and their three children, ages 13, 10, and 8.   Our work is extremely demanding, unpredictable, and at times emotional. Handling both would be impossible. 

Some of us are donating our Paid Time Off but others do not have this in excess. In looking for ways to support our strong, proud, hard-working, selfless and stubborn advocate for all, friend and co-worker, we decided to create this fund. Knowing the unique admiration and respect Jean has for her Kelly we are sure this family has made an impact on many people in aspects of their lives outside of the workplace. Please consider contributing to this fund and/or sharing with your network to assist this lovely family during this challenging time in their lives.