Please Help Honor Jerry's Wishes: Support Marla's Future

It is with a heavy heart that I share the news of Jerry Gillis, a long-time resident of Summerland, BC. Many of you knew of Jerry's strength and kindness, and his great sense of humor. Jerry was such a positive, resilient man, and his courageous fight with cancer was nothing short of inspiring. He is deeply missed. In Marla's word's, Jerry was the strongest person she has ever known, a very stoic man. Jerry's last wish was for his wife Marla to be well cared for and not have to endure more financial trauma with losing another home they had worked so hard to regain. Jerry had spoke with his doctor before passing saying how worried he was for Marla. This is why we are raising fund's to help secure her future. This Go Fund Me has been set up to support Marla during this very difficult time with all donations going directly to her. Every little bit helps and your contributions will provide her with some comfort as she navigates through her grief. Marla also suffers with a disability and her pension does not cover the monthly expenses, including a mortgage as well. They did not have mortgage insurance as they were living on minimal income with their pensions. Currently she is also experiencing costly mechanical problems with her vehicle. In their first year of marriage, 33 years ago, they were devastated after Jerry suffered a severe workplace injury causing him to be permanently disabled. Consequently they lost their home, their car and everything, forcing them into bankruptcy. Marla continued working, at times 2 jobs, and taking care of Jerry as well. Together they got through all of the extremely difficult circumstances they encountered doing the best they could, and did not give up. Jerry and Marla were a very compassionate, thoughtful couple. A few years ago, they were looking at getting another vehicle. They had gifted their car to a local Veteran as a token of their sincere appreciation of our Veterans. This was their way of paying it forward. Thank you for considering supporting this cause and for honoring Jerry's wishes in such a meaningful way. Your kindness will truly make a difference, and it will be greatly appreciated.

Sincerely,

Gretchen