Help Restore Jon Bauer to Pain-Free Days

My name is Julia Scherer and I'm a pianist. Music has connected me with many people who have become dear friends. Jon Bauer is one of these--someone I have loved and respected for decades, both as a musician and as a beautiful human being. Gatherings at his loft in Kansas City connected so many lovely people with each other. One such event was a memorable house concert by Victor Wooten. Later, attending a Spirit of Nature camp with Jon at Wooten Woods was one of the high points of my life. Membership in Mu Phi Epsilon International Music Fraternity ("The Mighty Moos"--Jon's term, haha) connected him with a worldwide fellowship of musicians.

Jon has been experiencing chronic severe back pain for many years. Over the past few months, it has become nearly unendurable. He has been unable to play piano due to the intensity of pain. Even worse, he can't walk, can't sit at the computer to communicate with friends, can't go anywhere, and suffers sleep disturbance due to the pain. When talking on the phone, I've noticed that even speaking is effortful. I asked him about that and he said the pain "makes it hard to even think."

Jon has been living abroad since 2017 and currently resides in India. The back surgery that could alleviate the pain is expensive and has a very long recovery period during which time he would have to lie prone. He wants to avoid this if possible. To that end, he sought treatment from an Ayurvedic practitioner. Much to his surprise and delight, the treatments have brought relief, but he has run out of money to complete these treatments. The estimated remaining cost is about $3,000—assuming that everything unfolds as anticipated. If donations exceed this amount, the funds will be put aside for future medical needs. [Note: Although Jon is in India, he has a bank account in San Antonio, TX into which these funds will be placed.]

Friends, please join me in helping alleviate Jon's back pain. No amount is too small because all gifts express love. Having those who love him rally around him in his time of need will not only help financially, but will let him know how much we care about him. Wouldn't it be fantastic if he could join us at Wooten Woods again someday?