Her Heart Beats In Chicago

The phrase, “It takes a village…” has never been truer today than ever before. Mothers often relate to defining their children as their hearts living outside of their bodies. This is an understatement of the unwavering love and support that Joi Ross carries for her son, Marcus Kennedy.

As many of you know, Marcus, a dedicated athlete in Anchorage, Alaska suffered an unexpected heart attack at his basketball game on August 10th, resulting in cardiac arrest where his brain was deprived of oxygen long enough to cause brain damage. Currently, Marcus is in a minimally conscious state called MCS. He is not in a coma, but he is not fully awake, yet. This has Marcus reliant on round-the-clock medical attention, physical therapy, and rehabilitation.

Marcus continues his daily fight, showing more and more progress, especially with his mother fighting by his side. Marcus cannot make it through this unpredictable journey without the support of his village… the support of his community… the support of his friends… the support of his family… and most of all, the support of his mother. No one can underestimate the power of a mother's love for her son, and Marcus sure doesn’t. Just as much as Marcus needs her, she needs him.

Marcus’s family currently has him receiving the best medical treatment and therapy from a support team in the Shirley Ryan Ability Lab located in Chicago which is quite a journey from home. Joi has traveled, made arrangements, participated in physical therapy appointments, and consulted with the best medical advisors and doctors, advocating as a pillar of strength for Marcus in his darkest hour.

As the holidays are approaching, so does the importance of being with loved ones. Joi has been working round the clock to support Marcus and her family, but Joi needs to be with Marcus in Chicago, and Marcus needs the support of his mother. With the weight of the world on her shoulders, she remains steadfast in her positivity and strength for Marcus. Your donation will allow Joi to return to Chicago to be with Marcus. Your donation will assist Joi in securing temporary work in Chicago to support her family until Marcus can return home for Christmas. Your donation will give her a place to rest after working long hours and carrying the emotional weight of advocating every step Marcus takes in his recovery. Your donation provides another step in Marcus's progress!

Donations through Venmo is a preferred avenue!! https://venmo.com/u/Joi-Ross