Fundraiser for Lehi Gertz

Standing with Lehi: Uniting for Our Beloved Music Teacher in Her Battle Against Cancer

Lehi Gertz has dedicated her life to enriching our community through the transformative power of music. A graduate of the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point (1997-2003) with a Bachelor of Arts in Music, with a Masters in Teaching from the Minnesota State University, Mankato, Lehi has spent decades nurturing local talent. Through her time at Dreaming-Elk Studio, she has introduced countless students to the violin via the Suzuki method, and taught private lessons in piano, violin, and 'cello to children and adults alike. Now, she continues to inspire youth daily as a cherished music teacher at GFW Public Schools in Gibbon. If you know Lehi, you know her infectious smile, her fiddle always in hand, and her inspirational free spirit. She possesses a unique gift for making everyone feel welcome and valued, leaving an indelible mark on countless lives.

Recently, Lehi faced an unimaginable challenge. Following an unexpected diagnosis of colon cancer, she underwent emergency surgery at Abbott. The doctors subsequently uncovered multiple diagnoses including Lynch Syndrome, (a disorder that dramatically raises the risk of colorectal, endometrial, ovarian, and gastric cancers), as well as tumors and cysts that will require subsequent surgeries. This diagnosis means the road ahead is undeniably steep, requiring extensive treatment and a difficult recovery.

While Lehi has always been the one to uplift and inspire, it is now our turn to surround her with the same warmth, humor, and generosity she has shared so freely over the years. This journey comes with immense financial strain: rapidly mounting medical bills, the loss of income during recovery, and the countless unexpected expenses that accompany a cancer diagnosis.

This fundraiser aims to ease that burden, allowing Lehi to focus entirely on healing. Every contribution—no matter how modest—will go directly to supporting Lehi. Let us unite as the community that Lehi has always uplifted. Your generosity, prayers, and steadfast support mean more than words can convey. Thank you for standing with Lehi, lifting her with love, strength, and optimism every step of the way as she navigates this challenging path.