Jan Hammer and Family

Hi, my name is Jen Schroeder and I’m fundraising for my dear friend and colleague Jan whose family is struggling right now in the wake of the loss of her father-in-law. Those who know Jan know how kind, sincere, and genuinely hopeful she is. She has a way of bringing fun and joy to almost any situation. I have been privileged to navigate becoming psychologists, entrepreneurs, and subsequently mothers alongside her over the past 10+ years. These past 3 years have been particularly hard on her and her family. I have been in awe and my heart has gone out to her as she unpacked what it meant to have a young child with a rare genetic condition, Kleefstra Syndrome and Autism all while also parenting her younger daughter, being a supportive partner, and guiding many children, teens, and adults through the global crisis of the pandemic. She does so much to support others, now she needs support and I am hoping we can come together to support her and her family through this time of need.

Her story,

Ryan's father, Dan Hammer, passed away on the evening of Thursday, April 13th. Dan’s cancer came back after being in remission for many years, and his health declined rapidly. Dan Hammer was a loving, kind, supportive force in our lives. I am the breadwinner for our family and I need to take time off to help with the girls, help with funeral preparations, attend the funeral, and grieve.

My two daughters, Elissa and Nora, are 4 and 2. Elissa has Kleefstra Syndrome and Autism. I love my job, and the flexibility that comes with being self-employed in my private practice has created crucial flexibility with raising my two girls. However, I don't have paid time off and taking time off from work leads to the risk that we won't be able to pay our bills. This causes an immense amount of stress on top of the current tragic situation. Any financial assistance during this incredibly difficult time will provide huge relief.

Thank you for taking the time to read this and for your kindness and generosity towards Jan. Please, if you can, share this fundraiser with the community.

-Jen