Jamey Bumbalo loves a lot of things. That list includes, but is not limited to, his kids and family; his friends; his summer camp, Camp Pathfinder; Canada; hiking; paddling; and trucking long distances. He is often the one to pick up the phone to check in; he is the glue that keeps friendships together. In short, he loves his circle of friends, and he is loved in return.

     Now, Jamey is facing some challenging times ahead with his recent diagnosis of esophageal cancer. There have already been numerous appointments, trips, and overnight stays, with countless more to come---and insurance doesn't cover a substantial portion of the expenses he is facing. For example, he will be spending five days a week in a hotel in Grand Forks, North Dakota during his chemo treatments which begin shortly, and then again for radiation later in the summer before a fall surgery. Grand Forks is almost two hours away from Walhalla, where he lives and teaches (and is five minutes away from Canada!), so he can't go home between treatment days. Jamey has enough to deal with without wondering if or how he can pay for these mounting expenses. Together, we---everyone in Jamey's wide circle of relationships---can help relieve that burden by donating to this fundraiser. Please consider supporting Jamey today.

     That support goes beyond dollars and cents: it also means sharing this plea with others who may not yet be aware of Jamey's situation. Please post it on any social media you use and spread the word about how we can all help our dear friend. Every dollar donated will help defray the financial strain of this lousy situation. The expenses have already begun, and will continue to grow well into the Fall. As his out of pocket expenses increase, the goal for this drive will also grow. 

     Please join us today. Thank you.


     PS: For those of you who may be wondering: a "portage" is a trail between lakes on a canoe trip where you have to carry the canoes and packs to the next lake. It can often be quite tough with hills, mud, and assorted insects, and there are times it can be downright miserable. But then,  through the trees, you see the "blue"---the shimmer  of sunlight reflecting off the lake ahead. Your pace picks up, and before you know it you're taking a sip of cool lake water. Let's all help Jamey enjoy that cool drink.