Support Dawn Collins' Bone Marrow Transplant

Help My Mom, Dawn Collins, Heal — Support Her Bone Marrow Transplant Journey

Hi, I’m Joni Collins, the youngest daughter of three children aka the (

relentless) middle child blessed to call Dawn Collins “Mom” . 

If you know our mom, then you already know what love in action looks like. For decades, she’s shaped lives with unwavering kindness — as a fifth-grade teacher, swim instructor, cheerleading coach, tutor, mentor, and “residential mom” at the Bartram Campus of The Bolles School. But beyond her titles, she’s been the heart and soul of our family: a devoted wife to our dad, Tom, for over 50 years, and the selfless mother of Kip, Catie, and me.

Our mom has always been the quiet force behind so many people’s success stories — showing up with a towel at the end of a swim lane, staying late to help a student finally grasp a tough concept, or reminding each of us to stand a little taller, believe a little more, and love a little deeper.

She has never asked for anything in return.

Now, she needs our help.

This June, Dawn will undergo a bone marrow transplant at Mayo Clinic to treat a life-threatening blood disorder called Myelodysplastic Syndrome (MDS). Following the transplant, she’ll face a critical 90-day recovery period where she must live in medical isolation close to the hospital to reduce infection risk and stay within reach of intensive follow-up care. Because her home is 29.5 miles from Mayo Clinic (and outside the 40-mile guideline for housing assistance), we are left to shoulder the full cost of relocation and recovery.

Our family is doing everything we can — but the financial strain is heavy.

Here’s where we need support:

• Safe housing near Mayo for 90+ days

• Caregiver support & daily transportation ( 

temporarily closing my medical clinic for the isolation period and will be with my Mom full time)

• Medical costs not fully covered by insurance

• Nutritional and recovery-related expenses

Dawn has spent a lifetime showing up for others. She has cheered on every child, counseled countless teens, and poured into each person lucky enough to cross her path. She has fought for all of us — now, it’s our turn to fight for her.

If you are able, we would be so grateful for your contribution — no amount is too small. If you’re unable to give financially, please consider sharing this campaign or sending prayers, hope, and strength.

This is not just about funding — it’s about healing.

Let’s surround Dawn with the same steady, unconditional love she’s given all of us.

With deep gratitude,

Joni Collins & The Collins Family