A Journey of Love, Loss, and Lifesaving Support
When my granddaughter Jenna was born, our world changed. She needed machines to help her breathe and round-the-clock care to keep her safe. I was scared. We all were. But from the very beginning, Jenna was a force of nature – full of sass, music, laughter, and love. She had a way of lighting up every room she entered. You met her once, and you never forgot her.
Jenna became part of the Edmarc family when she was just four years old. And from that moment on, we knew we weren’t in this alone.
Edmarc didn’t just care for Jenna – they cared for all of us. Her mom could finally step out of the house knowing Jenna was in trusted hands. My wife and I, who lived right next door, became part of her care team too. Sometimes we’d move all her machines to our house so her parents could sleep or even take a break for a much needed vacation. We could do that because Edmarc was there supporting us, training us, and making sure Jenna got the best possible care at home.
Jenna passed away just shy of her 17th birthday. It was pouring that day – fitting, in a way, because she had always loved the rain. Nearly everyone from Edmarc was there, including Edmarc Executive Director Debbie Stitzer-Brame, who was always available for our family. It was a powerful tribute to Jenna and a reflection of the deep love Edmarc has for the children they care for.
Even now, all these years later, I still feel her presence –
especially when I’m volunteering with Edmarc. Whether I’m delivering meals during the holidays or helping organize our annual golf tournament that benefits Edmarc, I do it in her honor.
I support Edmarc because no family should face the hardest days of their lives without help. No parent or grandparent should feel helpless when they want so badly to make things better.
Your donation will help provide nursing care at home, support for weary caregivers, and joy for children who deserve to be kids – no matter what challenges they face.