Please Be There for Becky

Becky Ziegler, affectionately known as Mrs. Z. by her students, is a beloved member of the VCMS family and Vernon Community. She has worked as a paraprofessional for students with special needs for 23 years. Mrs. Z. is an invaluable partner to teachers in the classroom, and students feel loved and supported when in her presence. She sets high standards for herself and every person she encounters, making students want to rise to meet those expectations. Becky is incredibly empathetic and full of energy, resulting in someone who anticipates everyone’s needs, tackling difficulties without being asked. It's obvious that Becky loves this challenging yet rewarding role. These skills come naturally to Becky, never taking credit or even realizing how much she is impacting every life she touches for the better. She’s a unique woman who makes every person she encounters feel like they are valued and beautiful, both inside and out.

 

This is what makes what happened a few months ago so devastating to those around her. A good friend convinced her to go for a mammogram, “just to be safe.” She was given what should be the worst news anyone would ever have to hear about their health…cancer. But even in light of this terrifying news, Becky did what she always does…she set about making everyone else feel better about what was happening. She put on a brave face, and she and her doctors developed a plan of attack. Before further treatment could be started, Becky would have to have a few more tests to ensure her body was healthy enough for chemotherapy. That’s when she realized that the news could be worse. She was told she also had lung cancer.

 

Even after such devastating news, Becky's unique ability to empathize made her more concerned with how much it would upset others than with how she felt herself. She even apologized when she broke down, fearing that it would make others uncomfortable.

 

Becky has recently finished two rounds of radiation and chemotherapy with bravery and humor. Unfortunately, her sick time has been used up, and she is no longer being paid while recuperating. Though her husband has been a tremendous support, the loss of her pay has taken a toll on them and often requires him to choose between being with Becky for treatments or working to provide their income.

 

Our goal is to raise enough to supplement the loss to Becky’s income for the remainder of this school year. Hopefully, this will allow her to heal with less stress and help her reach the goal of returning to her students next year. Please consider donating what you can. Every dollar will help. Your contribution will be used to help get Becky and her family through this trying time and show Mrs. Z loved and cherished she is to everyone in the community. ​