Dear friends of Barbara Vanderbeck,

A lot of you know the last couple years have been trying ones for Barb. Not only did she lose her part time position with benefits, but she has suffered a series of health related emergencies, the latest of which has required immediate surgery to (hopefully) save her vision.

Despite all of this, Barb has shown an indomitable spirit. She's working 3 jobs and still creating beautiful art that makes this world a better place to live in. But we all know how creative people are faring in the most expensive city in the world in which to rent. And now that her recovery requires a convalescence of about 6 weeks, the worry about day to day expenses, rent and medical bills must be overwhelming.

So here's the thing... I find these appeals for donations to be irritating because it puts you on the spot, regardless of intention. In fact, I'm sure Barb would not let me set up this page if she knew about it for just that reason. But I'm of the opinion that every little bit helps. For anyone who wants to donate even a small amount, I hope this is a convenient way for you to help take some of Barb's financial worries away for the next few weeks so she can concentrate on healing.

The $5,000 goal for this campaign represents only a portion of the bill for this latest medical emergency. Thank you so much for anything you can do to help our friend through a really difficult time. Again, she knows nothing about this campaign; direct all your vitriol to me for hitting you up for cash!  ;)

I'm setting a date for close of this campaign in two weeks, on March 28th, but I will let her know about it by next week so she can concentrate on her recovery instead of her expenses. At that time, I will also change the "recipient" over to her name. Until then, it is a surprise so please don't mention it to her. Feel free to send this to your friends who know Barb; I have probably missed a lot of people.

Thanks again,
David Smith