Community steps up to support Palm Springs Johannes waitress battling Leukemia
PALM SPRINGS, Calif. (KESQ) - Barrie Shulman, a longtime waitress at Johannes Palm Springs, is leaning on her community after a sudden Leukemia diagnosis forced her to stop working and face mounting financial strain.
Shulman said she was diagnosed with Acute Myeloid Leukemia on December 16, a life-changing moment that will keep her out of work for at least 6 months while she undergoes treatment.
She previously battled breast cancer, but said this diagnosis is far more uncertain and complex.
A career waitress, she said she has always supported herself and her mother, but without the ability to work, her monthly Social Security income falls short of covering basic expenses.
Johannes Bacher, Executive Chef/Owner of Johannes Restaurant, said she has been part of the restaurant's family for nearly 2 decades.
"She's a great employee," Bacher said. "A lot of customers, they love her and they come for that reason. They come to see Barrie."
Shulman said regular customers who have turned into friends, have rallied around her in a big way.
In just 3 days, Shulman's GoFundMe has raised more than $15,400 to help cover living expenses during treatment.
You can visit the fundraiser by clicking here.
She said she's been blown away by the community's generosity.
Shulman is scheduled to undergo a bone marrow biopsy on Friday, a key step in determining the next phase of her treatment.
Stay with News Channel 3 to hear directly from Shulman at 10 p.m. and 11 p.m.
