My precious friend Erika Wessels had an unfortunate medical emergency. She suffered a stroke while driving her daughter home from high school on May 27th. Thankfully, her daughter Stella acted quickly, and paramedics were able to save her life. However, the stroke has left Erika without the ability to use the left side of her body.

Erika has three girls ages 16, 12, and 6 and she is married to her high school sweetheart, Chris. Life changed instantly for all of them on that car ride home.

I’m asking for donations to help ease some of the pain and suffering they’ve endured and will continue to endure on the long road to recovery ahead. They will need support every step of the way. Their home will require modifications. Erika will need extra help once she is released from Royal Oak Beaumont. The kids will need someone to step in where Erika won’t be able to during this time. Groceries, medical equipment, and household bills are all things your donation can help this lovely family with.

Erika hasn’t lost her will to fight, and her sense of humor is still top shelf—it will help carry her through the tough days and years ahead. But being an awesome person won’t pay for the expensive necessities that my dear friends will need. These are the times when real friends and the generosity of others mean the most. Anyone who knows the Cavanaughs can attest to the character and kindness of their entire family.

These high school sweethearts and their young daughters need us all right now, and I plead with those who can afford to give to please do so. No amount is too small—it will make a real difference in the lives of these scared little girls while their loving, dedicated mother travels down the long road to recovery.

One of Erika’s favorite places is Sleeping Bear Dunes. With our financial help moral support, and her will to fight she will one day enjoy her favorite place again with her precious girls and husband. If you’re unable to contribute to the GoFundMe, please share this post so we can reach as many people as possible. It truly means so much to me and to everyone who loves them.