Ann is a wonderful friend I met through our local bicycling group. Our friendship blossomed over shared interests and a deep admiration for Ann and her husband Tony’s quiet service to family, neighbors, friends, and church. Ann has always been the kind of person who gives back—whether volunteering at the food bank, checking on neighbors, or quietly regenerating at mass. She has touched so many lives with her kindness and strength. Her spirit truly lives in East Tennessee.

Recently, Ann has been fighting a courageous battle with cancer at MD Anderson in Houston, Texas. She has endured chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery, but the cancer has continued to progress. Those who love and care for Ann and Tony want nothing more than to bring them home to the mountains she loves, so Ann can be surrounded by family and friends as she faces this final stage. Loved ones are the best medicine, and we want Ann to rest comfortably in hospice care in Knoxville, rather than a hospital many states away.

Funds raised will help offset the significant expenses of an air ambulance transport to Knoxville and private pay hospice care. So many of you have already been a big part of Ann’s journey—your prayers, friendships, cards, and uplifting notes have meant the world to her. Through treatments, anxiety, and the unknown, Ann has steadfastly held on to her faith. Now, we hope you’ll help bring Ann home, closer to those who can share their memories and her impact in each of our lives. Any support or sharing of this fundraiser is deeply appreciated.