Help Jeff & Marei Heal After Church Shooting

Hi friends, family, and kind-hearted strangers,

On Sunday, September 28, 2025, our lives were forever changed. My parents, Jeff and Marei, were among the victims of the tragic shooting that took place at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

While attending church that day, my dad heard a loud crash and immediately rushed to help—because that’s who he is. In the chaos that followed, he was shot.

Jeff sustained a gunshot wound that shattered his ankle. He’s already endured two surgeries to remove the bullet and leather from his foot and is now facing a long and painful recovery that will involve months of physical therapy. My mom, Marei, was also injured by glass shards in her hands and feet. Thankfully, both of them are alive—but they are now facing a difficult road ahead, both physically and emotionally.

To make matters more challenging, Jeff is self-employed, running a small carpet cleaning and restoration business, Bestway of MI Inc. His work requires him to be on his feet every day—something he won’t be able to do for the foreseeable future. With their primary source of income abruptly cut off, financial pressure is mounting rapidly. Medical expenses have already exceeded $24,000 after my dad underwent two surgeries—one to remove a bullet and embedded leather from his foot, and another for a skin graft to help close the wound and repair the damaged skin.

If you know Jeff and Marei, you know that they are always the first to lend a hand. They’ve raised five amazing kids, are grandparents to 11 beautiful grandchildren, and pour their hearts into their small family farm. Their home is one filled with love, animals, and unwavering faith.

Now, they need our help.

We’re raising funds to help cover medical expenses, lost income, ongoing therapy, and other unexpected costs during this incredibly difficult time. Any donation, big or small, will go directly to helping Jeff and Marei focus on what matters most: healing.

Thank you for your love, support, and prayers. It means more than you know.

With heartfelt gratitude,

Kathleen