My name is Kat Feist and I own New England Plant Expo. I'm raising funds for one of our founding members, and most of all, friend Ivan Cruz.

If you've been to one of our events, chances are you've seen Ivan and I working a booth together. We met a few years ago and he was the first person I ever bought a rare plant from, starting me on my big business journey. With out him, I can't say I'd be where I am today. He has been irreplicable in supporting me and helping me kick of the expo business while both of us were working full time jobs.

With that being said. Ivan knew he had some sort of heart issue... just not how bad it was. In late July he went in for what was supposed to be routine testing that turned into major heart Surgery. There's some irony that on July 25th, while I was birthing my son Wesley in Boston, he was having life saving surgery in Providence at the same time.

The last txt we sent to each other was telling each other "good luck" and I didn't hear from him until 2 days later.

Ivan had 2 damaged valves and 2 main coronary arteries working at 50 and 40 percent. He's been sent home post surgery and is doing well. As a stylist and plant vendor, Ivan is self employed and does not qualify for temporary disability. He has been out of work for over a month and will continue to be for several more.

Ivan will need help financially with food, rent, and utility bills until he can get back to work. He has helped me and others so many times, so lets pay it back. Literally.

All proceeds will go directly to Ivan.

We love you Ivan!!!!