A popular teacher at Coupeville Elementary School has been diagnosed with leukemia, and her friends and co-workers are rallying around her.
Jackie Gelston teaches third grade at CES and was formerly employed in the South Whidbey School District.
She and husband Chris have two daughters — one in college and one attending middle school — and the family has been a vital part of the local 4H community.
As she begins her fight against cancer, Gelston is expected to be in the hospital for an extended period of time.
She will not be able to finish the 2021-2022 school year, and is not expected back in time to start the 2022-2023 campaign.
Fellow Coupeville teachers Corinn Parker and Christi Messner are spearheading campaigns to help their colleague and her family.
Parker launched a meal train, which had an overwhelming response, while Messner has posted a GoFundMe to allow people to help the Gelston family with medical costs.
“We are a small group of friends trying to help a fellow friend,” Messner wrote.
“We want to raise funds so she does not have to worry about the day-to-day expenses of her family and medical bills as she fights.
“We want to relieve as much stress from Jackie as we can.”
For more info and to donate, pop over to:
Coupeville Sports 