Hello, my name is Laura, and I am raising funds to help cover emergency surgery and rehabilitation costs for my dear friend, Joni Whitworth.

Earlier this week, Joni was rushed to Oregon Health & Science University hospital for help with a severe health condition that requires immediate treatment. Joni is now facing major, intensive surgery and a long, painful, and expensive recovery.

Anyone who knows Joni knows that they are a loving, passionate artist and organizer who has always worked to support and uplift artists and entrepreneurs in Portland. For nearly ten years, Joni has been a pillar in our community, helping hundreds of individuals with their projects and bringing their ideas to life.

Now it is our turn to show up for them. They need our help and support facing this emergency surgery. Thankfully, Joni has health insurance that will cover more than half the cost of the surgery itself. We seek financial support for all the many associated costs, including medication, physical therapy, an in-home caregiver for two to three weeks, and an anticipated two to three months of recovery time away from work. With your help and support, Joni will be able to focus on healing and recovery and not have to stress about the financial strain of being away from work for an extended period. Any contribution will go a long way to ease the tremendous burdens she is currently facing.

If you can donate any amount, we would all be eternally grateful. If you cannot monetarily contribute, sharing the link and getting the word out would be just as meaningful to us. Thank you for considering this request. I know I speak for all of us who love Joni when I say we would be incredibly grateful for your help and support. <3