Hi,

My name is Chris. I live across from the Mendell School, and I'm hoping you can join in supporting our beloved crossing guard Diana.

Over the weekend, a plow swiped the side of Diana's car, causing $3,000 worth of damages. The plow took off, leaving Diana with no recourse other than her own insurance, which she learned will not cover any of the costs. One entire side of the car is damaged, leaving Diana barely able to open the door and get in.

If you've met Diana even once, you have felt the loving, protective presence that she brings to the Mendell & School Street communities. Her generosity is endless, and her "Slow it down!" strikes fear in the hearts of any who dare to speed down this crowded street. If you've seen her in action, you know how hard she works: she stands in snow and ice or in the blazing heat, she plays Tetris with the dizzying array of cars and trucks and bikes and people and busses that all have somewhere they need to go, she literally protects our children from the everyday dangers of a busy city street. I have seen her covered in snow, shouted at by angry drivers, limping on her bad knee, and still she greets us with a smile and a wave across the crosswalk.

I don't know what she makes, but there's no way it's enough for the work she does. Her car is how she comes to us each morning, how she gets to her afternoon job caring for the elderly, and how she comes back to us each afternoon, but it's been hobbled by the unkindness of a hit and run driver. I hope we can reset the karmic balance by helping her get her car back in to proper shape, which she cannot currently afford to do.

Please donate if you can, even it's just a few bucks. The money will go a long way with Diana, but please also show her some love in the comments to remind her how appreciated she really is.

Thanks so much for your time,

Chris