If you know Dr. Bator and Mr. Small, you know that teaching is so much more than their job – it is who they are to their core. They have made a huge impact on their students over the years, across many different schools. They not only spend their days (and often their nights) working on world-class lesson plans tailored to their individual students’ needs, but they have also served as trusted confidantes and beloved dorm parents. They are the teachers students can always rely upon.

Recently, Dr. Bator had what was supposed to be straightforward surgery for a heart condition, but recovery has proven quite complicated and scary. Rather than healing as doctors expected, she experienced excruciating chest pain that became so bad she required an ambulance ride to the emergency room. She spent the next week in the hospital in tremendous pain that doctors struggled to explain. She is now home but still in the grips of mysterious medical ailments; tests are ongoing. While her medical team seems to be getting closer to an answer, she is still suffering and faces a lengthy recovery once a diagnosis is reached.

Unfortunately, both Dr. Bator and Mr. Small have exhausted their paid time off and will need to take unpaid leave under the FMLA (Family and Medical Leave Act). Dr. Bator is still too sick to work and will need time to recover. And yet, there are still bills to be paid, for rent, utilities, groceries, and (presumably) health care. Dr. Bator and Mr. Small’s admirable choice to devote their incredible intelligence and skills to teaching unfortunately means they do not have the financial resources to cover an extended period away from work. They do not know when Dr. Bator will be able to go back to work or what further medical bills they may face.

Now, as they face this frightening and uncertain situation, we hope to support them with the same care they have given so freely to others. If you are able to contribute, any amount will help ease their financial burden during this incredibly difficult time. If donating isn't possible right now, sharing this fundraiser or keeping them in your thoughts means so much, too.