Hello, dear friends!

I want to tell you about an amazing friend of mine. Well, not just a friend, more like a sister. If you are a part of the theatre community in Chicago you may know her, Jenee’ Garretson. Jenee’ is from Nebraska and has lived in Chicago working in theatre and as gifted artist for many years.

A few years back her dad was diagnosed with dementia and needed care. It didn’t take her long to decide that, as his only daughter, it was the right move to make. Selflessly, she moved back home to care for him. Jenee’ is one of the strongest and most caring people I know. She would give you her jacket to keep you warm, give you a place to stay after rough break-up or even do bad work-out dvd’s together on your only day off. In all seriousness, if you were to know her, you would know that she cares deeply about and for people. She has given up so much to help her dad and be with him during this difficult time. The job market being what it is near her home, has made it hard for her to always find a fitting job. She has been doing lots of different jobs hustling to make it work and still have time to care for her dad. Her grandmother is not too far away and there are sometimes when the three of them can get together to play cards or have dinner and she can lean on her for support with her dad and his condition.

Jenee’ has been managing on her own for a while. Unfortunately, her accounts are dwindling, and side jobs have been shifting, as she is always trying to find the best situation that gives her the flexibility to help care for her dad. Currently, she is about to change opportunities, but her dad has taken a turn. This past week he fell and suffered injury along with having other illnesses. She took him to the emergency room. It is very hard to watch your parents as they age, but it is extremely difficult and exhausting to be the primary caregiver. However, after a few days of her being at the hospital with her dad, Jenee’s grandmother had also taken a fall and has a broken hip.

Now, both her grandmother and dad are hospitalized. Things are very hard right now for Jenee’, and she doesn't know quite how how or when she is going to be able to get back to work. Knowing the bills will be stacking up and both her dad and her grandma are in need of her care and rehabilitation for them with be long and expensive. The weight is too much all at once. Even though I know so many of her friends and family are lifting her up in our thoughts and prayers, I feel like she could use a little bit more help at this time.

Jenee’ is not a person that finds it easy to ask for help, she is fiercely self-reliant. Regardless, I think she could use our help right now. Please consider donating to the Go Fund Me to help Jenee’ as she helps her family during this very difficult time.