On August 25, our friend Kris DiCarlo will undergo brain surgery at MD Anderson in Houston, Texas, to treat a brain tumor known as a glioma. The tumor is located in the left insula, a region deep within the brain and near areas that control critical functions such as speech and movement.

At just 56 years old, Kris is suddenly facing something none of us ever imagines having to face. In a matter of weeks, life has gone from work, family, friends and everyday plans to doctors, travel, brain surgery and the uncertainty of what recovery will look like.

And if you know Kris, you know slowing down isn't exactly her style.

Kris is vibrant, funny, kind and full of life. She's an entrepreneur at heart and always seems to have a new idea, project or adventure in the works. She loves her family, loves dachshunds, loves to cook, and her baked goods could put a professional baker to shame.

She also has a deep faith that is carrying her through a time when, understandably, there is fear and uncertainty.

For many, Kris is also one of the familiar faces of the automotive recycling industry. Through her years with Commercial Forms Recycler Supply, she has built relationships with people across the country. Customers have become friends, colleagues have become extended family, and Kris has become someone who is well known, respected and loved throughout the industry.

Now Kris needs her community around her.

Following surgery, Kris is expected to be unable to work for at least a couple of months while she heals. She and her family will also be traveling from Michigan to Houston for her surgery and care.

There are still many unknowns about what the weeks and months after surgery will bring. Donations from this fundraiser will go directly to Kris and will help ease the financial impact of this unexpected journey, including travel to and from Houston, medical and insurance expenses, follow-up care, possible rehabilitation and recovery needs, and other expenses that arise while she is away from work and focused on healing.

So many people who heard about Kris's diagnosis immediately began asking, "How can we help?"

This is one way.

If Kris has touched your life — as a friend, customer, colleague, family member or simply as someone whose personality made your day a little brighter — please consider helping her now.

A donation of any amount matters. And if donating isn't possible, sharing this fundraiser can be just as meaningful by helping it reach someone else who knows and loves Kris.

But there is one thing Kris has asked for above everything else:

Prayer.

Please pray for God to guide the hands of Kris's surgeons and every person caring for her.

Pray that the tumor can be removed safely and completely, without lasting effects.

Pray for a successful surgery, a smooth recovery, complete healing and renewed strength.

Pray that this surgery marks the end of this tumor and the beginning of Kris getting back to the vibrant life she loves.

And pray for peace for Kris, her husband Frank, her son Jake, and everyone who loves her as they walk through the uncertainty ahead.

"So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God." Isaiah 41:10

Kris, there are so many people standing behind you.

You are loved.

You are covered in prayer.

And you are not walking through this alone.

If you wish to send Kris a private donation or perhaps send her a note you are thinking of her, please mail to:

Commercial Forms - Attn: Kris DiCarlo

P.O. Box 1859

Brighton, MI 48116