Jennifer “Jen” Turnbull passed away on Sunday September after a long battle with mental health illness. She was actively seeking treatment and yet, due to underfunding of research of effective treatments, she decided to end the torment that was in her mind.

There are not enough positive adjectives to describe Jen- funny, generous, caring, loving, funny, super smart and funny. Her hero was Mr. Rogers. She has a picture of him on the glass in front of her office with a handwritten note that says, “how can I help you?”. One of Jen’s co workers shared how she would hide notes of encouragement in her office to brighten her day, and it worked. Jen was always thoughtful and eager to share her affection and love.

Jen’s passing was a total shock. She will be missed by all who knew her most of all her daughter Ruby. After they returned from a recent mother/daughter road trip I asked Jen what her favorite part of the trip was. She said, “Just hanging out with Ruby and watching some geese cross the road.”

Ruby may not receive life insurance money because of exemptions for suicide. In addition to helping with the many necessary expenses of a family member’s passing, we are asking for donations to help Ruby pay for therapy, and be free of financial stressors during what must be one of the most difficult moments of her life.

Please consider donating if you can. If you cannot, please help honor Jen by researching your candidates before voting and vote for those whose support more funding to help with mental health research. Thank you.