Jeffrey Gentry Stroke Recovery Support Fund

As the summer draws to a close, excitement about the coming school year is in the air. Sadly, for the students and staff at my elementary school, this year will begin without one of the most adored members of our school family.

For 17 years, Jeffrey Gentry has been there to welcome new and returning students. This year, as his beloved school kicks off a new year, he will be in Emory Rehabilitation Center, struggling to regain the use of his left side following a debilitating frontal lobe stroke.

Mr. Gentry is known and loved by students and co-workers for his kind-hearted spirit and his ability to find the best in everyone. His genuine wish for all of his students is for them to learn, grow and succeed, not just during the time they spend in his classroom but throughout their lives. His students are his family, and many of them remain in touch with him throughout high school, graduation, and beyond.

Jeffrey’s prognosis is unknown at this point, but he has a long road to recovery and needs our help. With his rehabilitation and recovery time frame unknown, we anticipate his needs to be significant. Medical bills, physical therapy, transportation, personal care, and loss of income will create tremendous hardship for him.

I’ve been a member of this school family for seven years, and I’ve grown to love the sense of community that embodies our school. It is my hope that we can rally our village to support one of our most cherished members.

Mr. Gentry is a proud man, and accepting help will not be easy for him. Hopefully, he will recognize this for what it is; a genuine and heartfelt show of support and gratitude for the years of love and devotion he has given to us.