Update

Feb. 20: It has now been a week, and Barb still has not woken up, but we are not losing hope that she eventually will!! Her brain is resting. She has pneumonia, but otherwise her scans are coming back “stable”. Over the week, we have seen various signs of progress. Some limb movement, some eye movements, and after multiple failed attempts, she was able to breathe on her own for a little while yesterday!! The room was full of happy tears when this happened, and they will try again for a short time today! I focused on the brain surgery in the original story, but she also had major, major facial repair surgery, and her face is beginning to heal, though the process will be long and will require multiple more surgeries. Her six children immediately traveled from near and far and remain by her side, along with her husband, Jerry. She has a loved one holding her hand all day, every day. ❤️ The family is humbled and grateful for the outpouring of support they have received, so thank you, thank you from the bottom of our hearts!

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As many of you know, our dear friend Barb was the victim of a horrific assault that occurred outside her house in Delta Township on Friday, 2/13, around 5:30 pm. When she heard someone in trouble, she ran outside to help without any thought or regard for her own safety. A tragic scene was unfolding across the street, and she ran directly into the danger and saved two lives by distracting the gunman and taking his attention away from the family he was shooting at; a young family out on a walk who he had never met and had no connection to.

She endured severe trauma to her head and face, including bleeding in her brain. Emergency brain surgery was life-saving, but she lost consciousness on the scene and has not yet regained it. We are waiting and praying so hard for her to wake up. She remains in critical condition.

Barb's bravery and selflessness exemplify the very best of humankind. Her warmth, kindness, and enduring spirit have touched countless lives in our community. Several people have reached out offering financial support, and we decided to make it easier. Though the family does not yet know the financial reality of this situation, we are setting up this GoFundMe to support Barb in her fight toward recovery. Whatever funds are not needed for her medical care will be donated directly to the other family impacted by this tragedy. Every contribution, no matter how small, will make a difference. Thank you for your love, prayers, and support.