April turns 40 next April. We are setting off on a journey to give her the best birthday surprise that we can imagine. Giving her the gift of starting her 40s debt-free! Those of you who have the privilege of knowing April know that she is a wonderful human being. She is an incredible physical therapist whose immense skill and expertise are only surpassed by the kindness and dignity with which she treats those she works with. As a mom, aunt, daughter, sister, friend, and coworker, April shows up for her people in really meaningful ways that let each of us know how much we are loved.

A little backstory on the debt: April worked incredibly hard to earn her doctorate in Physical Therapy, which she completed in 2015, taking on $127,000 in student loans to make that dream possible (even while her husband worked 3 jobs to get through that time). Since then, April and her husband have done everything they can to pay those loans down while also walking through medical complications, welcoming their daughter, and moving back to be closer to family (due to those medical complications and the birth of their daughter). Through it all, April has remained selfless, caring, and deeply committed to serving others. Although April doesn’t share it, the weight of her student loans has impacted her from day one, and it will be such a huge relief for her when we present her with the gift of having them paid off!

Paying off the rest of April’s student loans would mean so much more than clearing a balance. It would take a weight off of her shoulders that she has carried ever since graduation. It would also give her the freedom to dive fully into something she is incredibly passionate about. Using her PT skills and knowledge to help our elders remain at home longer. April started a business this year to assist elders in understanding how they can make changes to their home that will help them age in place while also providing health services and training to help them navigate their homes and environments with confidence. Right now, taking the pay cut that could come with moving into the business more fully is just not realistic while loan payments are still there. We would be so grateful for any support, whether through a donation or simply sharing this fundraiser. Even your consideration means a great deal. Helping April begin her 40s debt-free would be a tremendous blessing for someone who has spent so much of her life being a blessing to patients, family, and everyone around her.