Dear Friends, Family, and Kind Supporters,
We’re reaching out with heavy hearts but hopeful spirits to ask for your support for someone who has always been there for others — our beloved Judi.
Judi is a dedicated nurse who has spent her life caring for others with compassion, strength, and unwavering commitment. For decades, she served her community selflessly — comforting the sick, supporting families, and showing up every single day to help others heal.
But Judi’s role as a caregiver extends far beyond her profession. She is the proud mother of seven children and a loving grandmother who has always stepped up when needed — whether it meant raising her grandchildren during tough times or offering guidance, love, and unwavering support to every member of our family. She’s someone who has never given up on anyone she loves, and who goes the extra mile for others without hesitation.
Even as she aged, Judi continued working part-time while living on Social Security income — not because it was easy, but because she was the primary breadwinner and always willing to do what was needed for her family. Sadly, her recent diagnosis has made it impossible for her to continue working.
Judi has been diagnosed with a rare and aggressive form of leukemia called Atypical Chronic Myeloid Leukemia (ACML also known by MDS) — a disease with limited treatment options and very little support infrastructure. The diagnosis has completely changed her world. What was once a life filled with work, family, and selfless giving has now become a daily battle for survival — filled with exhausting treatments, travel to cancer centers, mounting medical bills, and days filled with uncertainty about things no one should be worried about while facing this awful diagnosis.
Despite the emotional and physical toll, Judi faces this illness with grace and determination. But the financial strain is becoming overwhelming. Insurance doesn't cover everything, and the out-of-pocket costs are growing fast — from medications to travel and daily living expenses.
That’s why we’ve started this fundraising effort — to raise $10,000 to help cover critical costs such as:
Specialized treatments and consultations.Travel to and from cancer centers, Medications not fully covered by insurance, and Basic living expenses while Judi is unable to work
As her daughter, I’m dedicated to being by her side as her full-time caregiver — transporting her to every appointment, attending every procedure, and ensuring she’s never alone in this fight. I’m also raising my young son, and working and though this journey is hard, I’m committed to standing beside her every step of the way — just like she’s always done for all of us.
We are doing everything we can as a family to support Judi, but we cannot do it alone. Every donation, no matter the size, brings us closer to easing this heavy burden so she can focus on healing. If Judi has ever touched your life — as a nurse, a friend, or a family member — please consider giving what you can.
And even if you don’t know her personally, know this: Judi is a fighter, a nurturer, and a woman who has spent her life helping others. Now she needs us.
Please donate if you’re able, and share this page with those who may be able to help. Your kindness and generosity mean more to us than words can ever express.
With heartfelt gratitude,Betty Knudsen On behalf of Judi’s loving family. Jennifer, Niels, Candace, Billy, Katie, Jonnie.