Angels for Babs

Hello,

I'm Toni Robinet, and I'm here to share a story that's very close to my heart - the story of my dear friend Barbara, a remarkable 78-year-old woman. Barbara's life has been nothing short of a heroic battle; she's a warrior who has bravely faced two knee replacements, two hip replacements, breast cancer, a mastectomy, radiation, a ten-hour Whipple surgery for pancreatic cancer, and four grueling rounds of chemotherapy. Through all this, her spirit has remained unbreakable.

Hi, I’m Melinda Bernard, a 37-year retiree from the St. Charles Parish School System. Barbara Nan Harris is one of my closest friends; in fact, more like a sister than a friend. We met when Barbara was assigned as my Assistant Principal at St. Rose Elementary. Barb was a beloved teacher and coach long before she joined our administrative team. She gave 37 1/2 years to SCPPS. I quickly learned what an impact Barbara made in our community when she met with parents regarding disciplinary issues. I would hear a parent exclaim, “Coach Harris, is that you?!? You were my favorite teacher EVER!!! Do you remember this routine you taught us?” And, in the office, do the routine! She made a lifelong impact on the children she taught! In addition, Barbara was instrumental in developing a school climate of caring, respect, and support that cemented a close school/community bond. She gave 110% to our district, students, faculty, and staff. With Barbara Nan’s health declining dramatically since 2019, she now needs support from others that she so generously gave to our children.

But now, Barbara faces a different kind of battle, one that doesn't require surgery or chemotherapy, but something much simpler yet profoundly significant - the comfort of staying in her own home. As Barbara's health continues to require constant attention, the need for around-the-clock care has become essential. Barbara's wish is to live out her days in the home that has been her sanctuary, her haven of memories and love. To honor this wish, we need your help. The cost of providing full-time, in-home care is substantial, and it’s a cost that Barbara cannot bear alone. Our goal is to raise $190,000 to ensure Barbara can receive the care she deserves.

This GoFundMe campaign aims to raise funds to pay for dedicated caregivers who can provide Barbara with the support and care she needs, 24 hours a day. By contributing, you're not just donating to a cause; you're helping to fulfill a final wish of a remarkable woman who has endured so much with incredible grace and courage.

Every donation brings us closer to our goal of ensuring Barbara can stay in her home, surrounded by the familiarity and love that only 'home' can provide. It’s not just about physical comfort; it's about giving Barbara the peace and dignity she deserves after a lifetime of fighting.

Your support means more than just meeting a financial goal; it's a testament to the power of community and compassion. It's about standing with Barbara in her most challenging time, showing her that she's not alone in this fight.

I know many of you don’t know Barbara Nan Harris, but perhaps she reminds you of a favorite teacher in your life, and you would donate in their name.

Please join us, Toni Robinet and Melinda Bernard, in helping to make Barbara's wish come true. Your generosity, support, and shared belief in this cause can make a real difference in the life of a truly extraordinary person.

Thank you for your kindness, for your big hearts, and for being part of this journey with Barbara, Melinda, and me.

With love and deepest gratitude,

Toni Robinet and Melinda Bernard