Information about what has happened to Jen

In August 2009 Jen experienced a small stroke which was being treated and managed with medication. She chose to keep this private and to focus on her own healing. She was doing well, although she continued to experience symptoms. Over the weekend of Feb 12-14, 2010 Jen produced an amazing dance performance called Other Wise and at the end of the run she was experiencing pain from what she thought was a pulled muscle or bruise. She was also having some increases in her post stroke symptoms. She and Michael went to the emergency room on Tuesday Feb 16 and Jen was checked into the ICU for observation.

On Wednesday, Feb 17 Jen had two surgeries, one to address possible internal bleeding around the hip and leg and the second was to put a stint into her right Carotid artery, to increase blood flow to her brain. The left artery was completely blocked and the right was only allowing 10% of her blood through. That surgery went well and while Jen improved they found that it still wasn't enough blood flow. On Saturday, Feb 20, she had a third surgery to bypass the completely blocked left artery. She came out of that surgery as best she could.

However on Saturday night Jen suffered another stroke, and by Sunday morning there was significant swelling in her brain. The swelling was not unexpected, they were treating it, but there was great concern for her recovery. On Monday afternoon it became clear that Jen was going to pass. She was surrounded by family and loved ones. She crossed early in the morning on February 23, 2010. She is survived by her daughters Ruby and Pele, her loving partner Michael, and all who have loved her.

(Photo Credit: Carolyn Shirmacker)