Support Jessica's Journey for Recovery and Healing

Many of you know my mom, Jessica, as a powerful force. She is a wild, adventurous, strong, fierce, outgoing, passionate, career driven, creative, and loving woman.

On August 28, my mom was in a horrific camping accident. Her camper van (that many of you see her driving all around the USA), had a gas leak that caused an explosion. She was going to cook dinner, and when she lit the stove, there was a “massive fire ball” as she has described. She was blown out of the van (through the metal side door) and burnt on more than 75% of her body. The fire investigators described her survival of the explosion itself as a miracle, emphasizing that if she would have gone to sleep, the gas leak likely would have killed her.

Currently, mom is receiving top of the line care at the University of Vanderbilt Burn Unit ICU, where the doctors have advised, at present, she will remain for 2-3months, likely followed by rehab.

The doctors have advised that she has majority second degree burns, with third degree burns to both shoulders and hands, possibly requiring surgery. Right now, the doctors are focusing on pain management, rest, and nutrition.

Coming from New York, I didn’t know what to expect. I was so relieved to find that mom has a positive attitude, focusing on gratitude to be alive. Despite the traumatic event and the tremendous damage to her body, my mom has remained resilient, emphasizing that she is going to do everything she can to heal.

I am making this to raise funds for all things involved in this incident-medical costs, accommodations for family to travel/visit Nashville, ongoing mortgage/bills. I am currently working with her employer, medical staff, and financial team to determine the best cost estimate of her care and ongoing financial obligations, including the cost of her father’s hospice care.

My mom has always been a pillar of the Memphis community. As the founder of Forward Counseling, she has dedicated her life to providing essential mental health care to those in need. For over 20 years, she has been a committed philanthropist in Memphis, donating her time and resources to nonprofits that aid the LGBTQ community, women, and survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault.

We are so thankful for the support we have received so far. If we haven’t replied to your message, we will soon. Jes is unable to easily use the phone due to her injuries, but I am replying to messages as best as I can. I will post updates on the fundraiser as they come. We really appreciate your support through this tragedy and are so thankful she will continue to share her vivacious energy with the world following her recovery.

If you prefer to donate directly or privately, please use the following methods:

Venmo @urfavefestivalwitch