Help Jeff Barry lead with his heart

On November 8th, life for the Barry family came to a screeching halt when Jeff and his children were hit by a drunk driver, on their way home. Miraculously, after rolling over and crashing into the side of the woods, the two young children were physically unharmed. Jeff, on the other hand, experienced significant trauma; suffering a broken neck and severe spinal cord injury. He was life-flighted to Springfield, where he underwent emergency surgery and a week-long stay in the ICU. Jeff is currently paralyzed from the chest down.

It would be exceedingly difficult to overstate the impact the Barry Family has had on the little town of Ava, Missouri. They have poured their hearts into the community and are loved and cherished by many. Rachel and Jeff are the owners of Jean’s Healthway, a natural food store in Ava. There, they have nurtured a lively hub which brings people together, united not only by a dedication to good health but also committed to building a thriving community. Along with providing nutrients and community support to this small town, they are pioneers in the regenerative agriculture movement, dedicated to restoring local ecosystems through proper animal husbandry and biodynamic farming practices.

Jeff cares for the farm and Rachel manages the store all while homeschooling their two beautiful children. The couple has long been a force for good. They are powerful community advocates, generous educators, loving parents, incredible neighbors and friends. They are always there in a time of need. This time, the Barry family and the community of Ava need your help.

I, Jason Barry the brother of Jeff Barry and organizer of this GoFundMe, am raising funds that will go directly to Jeff in their entirety to allow him access to a good physical rehabilitation center, purchase a wheelchair van, pursue additional alternative treatments, cover medical bills, and assist with future unforeseen expenses that will arise while the Barry family focuses on healing. Through your support, we hope to see Jeff back on his feet one day, out in the pastures and mountains…back to his regular routines of daylong bike rides and 50K runs.

It has been difficult for our community to comprehend why something so horrific could happen to such good people and yet we are already seeing the beauty in life’s surprises. The outpouring of love, prayer and support they have received in the past week could be a whole story of its own. Despite this loving support system, the financial burden of such a tragic event exceeds what a little town can provide.

We have great faith that Jeff will recover, and yet this journey will be an epic one. Let us ease the burden for this family who has dedicated so much of their life in service to others. If you feel led to give, every dollar will help make a difference. Thank you.