Many of you know our sweet Ruby as someone whose light, joy, and love overflow into the lives of everyone she meets. She is an incredible third grade teacher, yoga instructor, and even a bass player! Ruby loves to laugh, stay active, and care deeply for the people in her life. Many of us can confidently say she makes our own worlds brighter.

Recently, Ruby has had to go through an unexpected and difficult situation. Shortly after spending time with her family over the 4th of July weekend, Ruby began experiencing severe pain and other concerning symptoms. After multiple visits to urgent care, her condition worsened, and she was taken to a hospital in Fort Worth. After much testing and after ruling out illnesses like COVID and the flu, doctors diagnosed her with viral meningitis caused by the West Nile virus.

The inflammation affecting her brain and spinal cord has left Ruby unable to walk independently, care for herself, or find relief from pain for much of the past weeks. In addition to the physical challenges, this has taken a significant emotional and mental toll, especially as she also faces uncertainty regarding the covering of medical costs.

Throughout this complicated journey, Ruby has been surrounded by the love and support of her family and friends. Her mom, Angel, and her boyfriend, Drew, have been by her side every step of the way. She has also been blessed with an attentive and caring medical team and has received every thoughtful message, bouquet, and card with heartfelt gratitude. The kindness of those around her, along with her faith in God, has been a constant source of strength.

Even so, the road to recovery has many upcoming challenges, and it is why we are setting up this GoFundMe. Many have asked how they can help support Ruby and her family during this difficult time. One of the most meaningful ways to do that is by helping ease the financial burden of her medical care and recovery.

We have faith that Ruby will make a full recovery and soon be back to doing what she loves: teaching, laughing, serving others, and sharing her light with everyone around her. If you feel led, please consider making a donation (no amount is too small), sending her a message of encouragement, and/or praying for her healing and recovery.

Ruby is the kind of person who would go above and beyond for anyone fortunate enough to know her, never expecting anything in return. Now it's our turn to go above and beyond for her when she needs us most.