My name is Melanie Little, and I am fundraising for the Gerein family. Three weeks ago, my best friend of 30 years received devastating news: her father suffered a severe stroke. What followed has been heartbreaking, overwhelming, and life‑changing for the family — and they now need the support of the community they have spent their lives helping.

About Valerie Gerein

For many years, Valerie Gerein has proudly called Fort McMurray home. She has spent over two decades working in the local school system as a dedicated educational assistant. Valerie is known for her patience, kindness, and quiet encouragement — always helping students who needed just a little extra support.

Outside the classroom, Valerie is an active member of the Catholic Women’s League, always ready to lend a hand to her church and community. She has spent her life giving to others.

Now, she is facing one of the greatest challenges of her life.

Leslie’s Stroke and Long Road Ahead

Valerie’s husband of 40 years, Leslie, recently suffered a severe stroke at only 65 years old. The stroke has affected his speech and mobility, leaving him with a long and difficult rehabilitation journey ahead.

Leslie (since retired) dedicated 35 years to working in the oil sands at Syncrude, where he was known as a hardworking and dependable employee. He built strong friendships and a reputation for always showing up for others. Outside of work, Leslie has been a man of service — a devoted member of the Knights of Columbus and a regular volunteer at their Catholic Church. He is the type of person who would drop everything to help a neighbour or friend.

Now, after a lifetime spent helping everyone around him, Leslie is the one who needs support.

Why They Need Help

Leslie will be moved to Edmonton in the coming days for intensive rehabilitation and may later be transferred to Ponoka for continued treatment. Valerie wants to be by his side every step of the way, helping him regain as much independence as possible.

But being in Edmonton comes with major costs:

Travel

Lodging

Meals

Time away from work

At the same time, the family’s son, Terrell, who lives with Asperger’s Syndrome, requires daily support. With his father hospitalized, Terrell needs help with meals, groceries, and everyday household tasks. Valerie is seeking assistance to cover the cost of a support worker to ensure Terrell stays safe and cared for while she is with Leslie.

A Family Who Has Always Given — Now Needs Their Community

Valerie has spent her life caring for her students, her church, and her family.

Leslie has spent his life working hard and helping everyone around him.

Now, they need us.

Any contribution — big or small — will help ease the financial burden so Valerie can focus on what truly matters: being there for her husband during rehabilitation and ensuring her son remains supported at home.

Thank You,

Thank you for keeping the Gerein family in your prayers and for any support you are able to give. Your generosity means more than you know.