Help Support Barbara - Musician & Educator in Need

Dear Friends and Community Members,

This Christmas, I am reaching out with an urgent and heartfelt request for help. Many of you may already know Dr. Barbara Beechey, PhD—the solo performer in this photo and our beloved Principal Violist at the Fox Valley Symphony Orchestra and an outstanding music educator who has touched the lives of so many children and families in our community. Barbara is one of the most dedicated individuals you will meet, always putting others' needs ahead of her own. But right now, she needs us.

On the night before Christmas Eve, Barbara suffered a 2nd-degree burn to her left index finger. As many musicians will understand, this injury severely impacts her ability to perform, and with her left hand being crucial to her livelihood as a string player, her income will take a serious hit. The situation is worsened by medical expenses and compounded by the financial strain she is already facing. Barbara is currently behind on her mortgage and struggling to cover even basic living expenses.

Barbara is too proud to ask for help. She did not want to ask anyone for money. She is humble to a fault, and it breaks my heart to see her in this position, not able to reach out for the support she so desperately needs. I insisted! So, I am asking, on her behalf, for your help. If you can contribute anything—no matter how small—to ease the financial stress she is under for the next month or two, it would make a world of difference. Your donation will allow her to focus on healing, get back to teaching and performing, and, most importantly, help her regain the peace of mind she deserves while she works to increase her income at this time.

Barbara has given so much to our community through her music, her teaching, and her generosity. Now, it’s our turn to give back. If you’re able to donate, please do so. If not, your thoughts, prayers, and sharing of this message would mean the world to her.

Thank you for your kindness and support.

With gratitude,

Tara Stevenson