The Heart of the Lighthouse
JoJo is a nurse with a heart as big as the ocean. For nearly 20 years, she has dedicated her life to caring for others, including almost 15 years in the Pediatric Emergency Department, where she has been a source of hope and comfort for thousands of children and families during some of life's most difficult moments.
Her compassion doesn't end when her shift does. She is the friend who shows up, the coworker who lifts others up, the person who never hesitates to help, and an advocate for the underdog, whether that's a frightened child, struggling family, or a misunderstood pit bull.
"One person can be someone's lighthouse and, in turn, become a lighthouse themselves to brighten the world gradually."
Those aren't just words they are the way JoJo lives her life. for years she has been that lighthouse for her patients, her coworkers, her friends, her family, and this community.
An Ordinary Day.... Until It Wasn't
What began as an ordinary shift caring for children and families became the day everything changed.
While doing what she loved most, caring for others. JoJo suffered a sudden cardiac arrest. In an instant, the nurse who had spent nearly two decades helping save lives became the one fighting for her own.
Her coworkers sprang into action without hesitation. The same hands that had worked beside her countless times now worked tirelessly to save her life. Chest compressions began. Life-saving medications were administered. No one was willing to give up on one of their own.
Yet while her team fought for her here, JoJo remembers experiencing something she will never forget.
She remembers hearing medications being called out and pushed. At the time, she thought they were meant for someone else, not realizing the voices she heard belonged to the team fighting to save her.
She also remembers finding herself in a dark place, face to face with a dark figure she felt was trying to take her away. But in that moment, she stood her ground.
"No. I'm not going with you. I'm not going anywhere."
Moments later, she opened her eyes, surrounded by the very people who had refused to stop fighting for her.
Donate
Every contribution helps JoJo and her family. We are currently accepting donations through GoFundMe.
Silent Auction
Support our community by bidding on unique items donated by local businesses. Every bid brings a little more light to our recovery.
Be the Lighthouse for JoJo
There are many ways to support our community's light. From silent auctions to volunteering, every action brings hope to those we serve.
VHS employees can donate their vacation or PTO hours to support our recovery. We provide detailed instructions for those interested.
Business Sponsorship
Partner with us to provide financial support. Your sponsorship helps us reach our recovery milestones and keep the light burning.
Donate A Meal
Jo Jo loves to cook and prepare for others! Now we can show her our skills in the kitchen. Donate a cardiac friendly meal!
Gift Cards
Support our mission with a gift card. These funds are directly used to cover medical expenses and recovery-related costs.
Share Your Story
JoJo's journey is one of light and hope. We invite you to share how she has touched your life, provided comfort, or simply brought a smile to your face. Your words are the beacon that will help us light the way forward.
Recovery Milestones
A journey of healing and resilience, marked by the steady light of our community support.
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Initial Recovery
After a successful cardiac resuscitation and defibrillator implant placement. JoJo began her initial recovery phase, focusing on cardiac stability.
Home Recovery
Transitioning to a supportive home environment, JoJo continued her healing journey with the love and care of her family.
Physical Therapy
Engaging in a structured physical therapy program to rebuild strength and regain the mobility needed for her daily life.
In Progress
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Rebuilding Life
As JoJo's health improves, she looks forward to rejoining her community and continuing her work as a pediatric nurse.
In Progress
The Light We Share
A visual testament to the life and heart of JoJo, capturing the moments of healing, community, and the light she brings to those around her.
Common Questions
Every step of the way, we are here to provide clarity and support for your journey with us.
Where do donations go?
All donations go directly to JoJo and her family to support her recovery and future health.
Is this tax-deductible?
This is a personal fundraiser; donations are generally not tax-deductible.
Who manages the funds?
Financial donations through GoFundMe go directly to JoJo — GoFundMe pays her account directly, with no funds passing through Community Strong for JoJo. Silent auction proceeds are collected by Community Strong for JoJo and given directly to JoJo.
Can businesses help?
Yes, businesses can support us through sponsorships or by donating items for our silent auction.
Can I volunteer?
Yes! We welcome volunteers for event setup, photography, social media, and administrative support.
Can I donate PTO?
Yes, VHS employees can donate vacation or PTO hours to help with our recovery efforts.
Can I share this?
Of course. We encourage you to share our story on social media to help spread the light.
When is the silent auction?
The tentative date is September 5th @ 6pm.
Where will the auction be held?
The auction will be held online the website and links will be shared closer to the date of auction.