Just before Thanksgiving, 2009, Lakewood Park resident Jackie Beck went on a mission of mercy to help her estranged husband with a medical condition. That act of kindness nearly cost Jackie her life. The victim of an attempted murder-suicide, Jackie was shot twice, in the face and in the abdomen. She was left for dead, but her strong will to live, exceptional medical care, and the faith of her children and loving friends pulled Jackie through nine hours of brain surgery, a coma, and many complications. It’s a long road to recovery, but Jackie is strong and has the love of her family, friends, the respect of other St. Lucie County Employees, and the support of the entire community.

Wednesday, February 24th, please come out and share your love and a few dollars to help Jackie on the road to recovery. The Van Duzer Foundation, whose mission is to help St. Lucie County families and individuals in crisis because of unforeseen or tragic events, will be hosting a night of pizza, wings, knots, subs and salads, with one hundred percent of all proceeds going to assist Jackie Beck on her road to recovery. From 4 p.m. to 9 p.m., Big Apple Pizza and Pasta, at 2311 South 35th Street in Fort Pierce (directly across from IRSC’s main campus), all food and beverages, tips and staff wages will be donated to Jackie Beck; so if you order a pizza to eat in or take out, you’ll be helping Jackie, a long-time foster mother who has helped guide dozens of children through difficult times. There will be plenty of auction items, too, so come on out and do a little shopping while you’re waiting for your yummy dinner.

It’s a community event you won’t want to miss and it’s all to help a remarkable St. Lucie County resident and employee who has dedicated her life to helping youth and children in our community. Now, Jackie Beck needs our love and support more than ever. Please come out and help the Van Duzer Foundation help Jackie Beck, Wednesday, February 24th, 2010, from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m.