Dear friends, family, and kind strangers,

I’m reaching out with a heavy heart to ask for help on behalf of my aunt, Bernie Padberg, who recently suffered a traumatic accident while visiting Ireland.

While enjoying a bike ride during her travels, she fell and struck her head. The impact caused a brain hematoma and also displaced one of her neck vertebrae. She was rushed to the hospital and is now being closely monitored. Surgery is being considered, as we are awaiting more testing. Thankfully, her condition is stable, but doctors have made it clear: she cannot fly home for at least three weeks — or possibly longer — until it’s safe.

Bernie has been enjoying retirement after decades of serving as a beloved teacher in the Santee community. She has spent her life pouring into others — encouraging students, supporting families, and uplifting everyone around her. My aunt is truly a light. She radiates joy, kindness, and connection wherever she goes. She always finds a way to love and care for people deeply.

Now, she’s the one in need — and far from home.

We’re raising 15,000 to help cover:

Ongoing medical care and hospital costs

Temporary lodging and living expenses in Ireland

Transportation and recovery support

Travel assistance for a family member to be by her side

Your support will help relieve the financial and emotional burden she’s facing while trying to recover in a foreign country. Every dollar goes directly toward her healing, comfort, and safe return home.

If you’re unable to donate, please consider sharing this campaign with others. Your prayers, kind words, and generosity mean more than we can express.

Thank you for lifting her up in this difficult moment. ❤️