Hi. Lynn Pearson and I started this fundraiser for our old friend Jeff McLaughlin (FM Class of 1981), who suffered a debilitating stroke on December 3 as he began working his shift as a cook at Denny's in North Syracuse. I finally got a chance to visit Jeff in his apartment last week when I took this photo. As you can see, Jeff tried to be cheerful, but his stroke left him with severe aphasia that clouds his comprehension and makes communication extremely difficult.

Since college, Jeff has worked at chain restaurants, and he has neither health insurance nor savings. In addition, his longtime partner Angie is on disability herself.

Angie is caring for Jeff in their apartment, and his two adult sons are pitching in however they can. Still, the couple has fallen behind on rent without Jeff's income, and a letter from the landlord arrived this month suggesting an eviction could follow within thirty days.

I’ve given some money already, but Lynn and I thought the best assistance we could offer would be to put out the word. Your contribution would help Jeff get through the next few months until his disability kicks in. If we meet our goal, Jeff would have enough for rent and necessities through March — as well as a small cushion for medical needs — giving Jeff, Angie and Jeff's sons enough time to work out a plan for the future.

Sadly, it seems Jeff's chances for full recovery are very challenging, but whatever you give will help him avoid losing his apartment after the stroke. Thank you so much.