At the end of March of this year, my sister Heather (Smith) Marrelli Barr, became quite ill and had to be hospitalized. After a few days of medical tests, it became apparent that Crohn's disease (which Heather has struggled with for well over 20 years) had once again reared its ugly head. This time, however, it did not respond to the usual treatment and, after more than three weeks in the hospital, Heather was transferred to Mount Sinai in Toronto, where, on April 21, she had to undergo a total colectomy. This is major surgery and, although she is on the road to recovery, it could be a very long and bumpy ride.

Heather has been unable to work for the last few weeks and will be off work for an undetermined amount of time, (likely several more weeks) while she recovers.  Because of this Heather has had no income for over a month now and is unable to cover her regular expenses and the new medical expenses that are now a reality.

The financial impact of this is significant and so to help ease the burden on her, this fund has been created so her friends and family and even random strangers who feel so inclined, can help her get through these next few weeks/months. 

Many people have asked how they can help.  If you would like to help please consider contributing to this fund to assist in covering her expenses.  Whatever you feel you can afford would be appreciated more than words can express.

Thank you so much for your support of Heather.