I’ve been one of Emily’s best friends since kindergarten. She has suffered with Crohn's disease since I can remember. Emily has had more surgeries than anyone I know. As teenagers, I remember feeling overwhelmed with worry when she was in the hospital. I asked her father when he was living, "What in the world is going on?" With such a somber tone, he said "She's sick, baby". I knew right then that this was something she would struggle with for life. Here we are again... Emily is in the hospital after another surgery. She will be there for a week or more. They had to remove her colon this time, because there were precancerous cells in it. Emily was medically retired from the fire service last year, as a result of the illness. She started working part-time to fill financial gaps for her daughter, Kenzie's needs, like the cost of cheerleading and gifts for the upcoming holidays. For eight weeks or so Emily will be recovering, before returning to her part-time job. Her husband, Chris will also be off of work to care for her, and although he is getting paid, he will not be able to work his typical overtime. With Christmas coming up and medical bills to follow, they will be in need of support. Any little bit helps, so I’m setting up this go fund me to lessen Emily's burden, as Crohn’s disease can worsen from stress and potentially make her recovery even longer. I know she and her family would appreciate any small amount you can offer.

With love,

Kristen