Near the beginning of this school year, our dear friend Jessica Duran had a major stroke. At the time of her stroke, Jessica had been in good health with no detectable health problems. This stroke was entirely unanticipated and has shocked her family and friends. After her stroke, Jessica was in a coma for several weeks. Since she finally opened her eyes three weeks after the stroke, Jessica has continued to improve. Although she cannot yet speak, and her mobility is very limited, Jessica is fully conscious; she understands what is being said and what is going on around her. We are hopeful for her continued recovery.

Seven years ago, Jessica came to this country as a single parent of her three young children. She quickly learned English and became a certified dental assistant. Before the stroke, Jessica was the primary staff person and manager of a prominent dental practice in San Francisco. She worked hard to make a beautiful life for her children and as a single parent has done a truly amazing job. Her two oldest boys graduated from Albany High School and are in college. Her youngest, Jason, is a 10th grader at Albany High.

While Jessica has insurance, there are limits to the length of time her insurance will continue to provide the kind of care she requires in order to continue to get better. In particular, Jessica is going to need speech therapy to help her begin to talk, and physical therapy for her body to continue to heal and become stronger. These are expenses that will largely be paid for out-of-pocket and which she cannot afford on her own.

To help offset such expenses, a fundraising campaign in Jessica’s honor has been established with HelpHOPELive. To make a tax-deductible donation, click Donate Now.

Thank you in advance for your generosity and support. Your donation will go a long way in helping Jessica make a good recovery.

Sincerely,

Family and Friends of Jessica Duran