Help Gio & Francesca Get Their Groove Back

I met Giovanna back in 1997 when we both
worked at Starbucks. For the most part we
were the opening crew- having to be at work by 4:15am- which was a struggle for both of
us, but we always hustled and made it happen. 

We became good friends and remain so- even though we’ve each went in our own direction- our paths being very different from the other. Eventually she would find her way into physical education and wellness. 

I have always known Giovanna (“Gio”) to be determined and a go-getter, when setting her mind to something she does what she needs to do to make it happen- and the culmination of all that hustle is her gym Groundwork Fitness which she was able to open five years ago. 

Gio is also someone who tries to help other people outside of fitness in whatever way she can. She is a strong advocate for helping the homeless community get back on their feet- this is a mission that is very close to her; and she also helps fundraise for the LGBTQ community. 

Needless to say Gio is always striving to do better and be better and is always helping others to do better as well as feel better. Which is why I’m here to ask for help FOR HER AND HER MOTHER, Francesca, as they were victims of an unfortunate motor accident which the outcome COULD have been deadly BUT thankfully it was not, but nonetheless, it has made life difficult for both Gio AND her mother.

Last  Friday night, Gio and her mom were hit by a car while walking together in a pedestrian crosswalk. Indeed the crosswalk was green, however the driver went through a red light and struck both of them. It was an accident, and the injuries sustained will effect both Gio and her mother for weeks, maybe months to come.

I’ve been in touch daily and currently Francesca who is 70 years old has a fracture in her right knee. She is severely bruised from the waist down, she currently cannot walk and will be seeing further doctors this week. Gio has neck pain and also injured her left knee that has no breaks, but will require seeing an orthopedic doctor, she is currently using crutches.

If you know Gio she is a fighter and a strong independent woman who has taken care of her mother since she was 18 years old. For over 20 years my best friend has been giving to everyone from friends to family and to her own community. She even started a non profit to help those experiencing homelessness, as her dad died a homelessness man years ago.

As stubborn as my Italian buddy is she doesn’t ever ask for help, but she needs it. She can’t be there for her mom 100% because Gio herself is on crutches and it’s weighing on her. Their outcomes are still too early to know all treatments necessary, if surgeries will be required, what physical therapy will be needed but most importantly Francesca needs home care as both Gio and her brother must continue to work.

I’m not close enough to help her and it kills me to know she and her mother NEED it. Please, let’s get these two some assistance to help them get immediate help with medical bills, job loss funding for Francesca, home care thats needed immediately, any physical therapy needed and any other assistance as these two attempt to get through these holidays after this traumatic event.

Any help would be appreciated, please copy and share.