An opportunity to help a member of our community recover from surgery

A well-known young lady is in need of our help.

AJ Fahr is the regional editor of the Branson Tri-Lakes News. Fahr is a gifted journalist and an astute businesswoman. She is a fixture in the Branson Tri-Lakes community, where she is loved by the local residents.

Recently, Fahr suffered a medical issue that landed her in the hospital. Fahr underwent triple bypass open heart surgery on May 6, which was supposed to result in a hospital stay of five to seven days. AJ anticipated returning to work around May 20. On the night following her surgery, Fahr experienced complications and was ultimately placed on a ventilator and subsequently sedated for six days until she became more stable.  The setback extended Fahr's hospital stay to a total of 17 days, and rendered her unable to return to work in the near future.

AJ Fahr and husband, Pierce

Fahr's sick pay and vacation pay from her job at Branson Tri-Lakes News have been exhausted, as well as the limited amount of funds she received from temporary disability. Since Fahr is unable to work, she will not be receiving her regular paycheck for the foreseeable future.

A cousin of AJ's, Carrie Faupel, has set up a GoFundMe account for Fahr to help her during this difficult time.

"AJ is a selfless person who gives her everything to always help others. She has always put everyone above her own needs," said Faupel on the GoFundMe page. "She is the type of person I feel this app was created for—someone who deserves to feel love back."

A recent update to the GoFundMe page for Fahr stated, "AJ's recovery time has taken longer than expected. She has suffered infection and other setbacks. She will be out of work way longer than originally expected. Please continue to support someone who has dedicated her life to helping others."

If you are able to donate to Fahr to help with her expenses, please visit GoFundMe and search for "Support AJ's Recovery After Heart Surgery.” NOTE: There are two accounts with very similar titles, so please look for the one featuring a photo of AJ Fahr and her husband.

AJ greatly appreciates any amount that you can donate, as everything helps at this time. If you are unable to contribute, please share the GoFundMe page so that it can be seen by as many people as possible. Prayers for AJ's continued recovery are also very much appreciated.