Hi, my name is Debra Kerr-Smith. Kevin and Barb Smith urgently need our support. Feeling powerless from afar, and with their permission, I’ve launched this campaign to help them during the most difficult chapter of their lives.

In 2022, Kevin and Barb were running a thriving online business. Like many others, they were hit hard by the effects of COVID-19. Supply chain issues made their business unsustainable, and without the financial means to recover, they were forced into survival mode. Kevin took on a part-time job to help pay down debts, while Barb, struggling with an undiagnosed mental health crisis, shut down emotionally and withdrew from everyone.

In 2023, life took another painful turn when Barb was diagnosed with lung cancer. Her surgery coincided with a scheduled hip replacement, which she was unable to have done. Recovery was long and complicated, made worse by chronic health conditions including Fibromyalgia, Scoliosis, and severe, constant pain.

Then, in late 2024, they received devastating news: Barb’s cancer had returned. After years of physical and emotional suffering, she has made the incredibly difficult decision to decline further treatment. She wants to spend what time she has left in peace, without further trauma to her body.

Last month, during the Great Ice Storm that hit Central Ontario, Kevin and Barb lost power in their apartment. They endured four days in near-freezing temperatures before being rescued by their dear friends, Sandra and Tim. We will always be grateful for their generosity and support. Unfortunately, while staying with them, Barb suffered a serious fall, breaking multiple bones in her arm and shoulder. Due to the rare nature of the damage sustained, surgery is not an option. She is now slowly learning to cope with the limited use of her dominant arm.

Kevin has missed considerable work to care for Barb and get her to numerous hospital visits. Last week, things became critical. Their longtime bank canceled all credit and emptied their accounts after they fell behind on a credit card repayment. They are now unable to pay for the basics of life, which include rent, groceries, and medications. They are truly out of options. Kevin and Barb certainly realize, and are the first to admit, that they handled this situation very poorly. They were doing what they could to survive financially.

We honestly do not know how much precious time we have left with Barb, but we are hoping to ease the stress for her and Kevin, hopefully allowing them to make some special memories together. We know this is a very trying time for many people, and Kevin and Barb are not alone in their struggles. If you can help them through this crisis, with any amount, we would be so appreciative. If you are unable to give, sharing this page with your network would mean the world.

Thank you so much for your kindness, support, and compassion!

Debra