Ankeny teacher with Lyme Disease receives money for treatment from former students

ANKENY, Iowa — A beloved Ankeny teacher troubled with a uncommon sort of Lyme Illness for two yrs could lastly triumph over it, thanks to his former pupils.

Kevin McColley has taught artwork at Ankeny elementary and middle colleges for much more than a 10 years, but stepped away for medical leave this thirty day period so he could pursue treatment for his condition in Florida.

“When I stroll from my vehicle to my desk, I’m put in,” McColley mentioned. “I haven’t been able to see my women in a choir live performance or a band live performance. Just primary capabilities.”

McColley explained he most likely caught Lyme Condition though doing the job on his backyard fence with shorts and a t-shirt on. He now ordeals signs which include fatigue, fever, and brain fog.

The treatment could price $60,000 and is not lined by insurance policies. Having said that, a GoFundMe commenced by McColley’s good friend, Brian Gillette, has raised far more than $30,000 for the treatment in just a week.

“I really do not consider there’s any way we can repay him for every little thing he’s carried out for our little ones in Ankeny,” Gillette mentioned. “He’s intended so a great deal for our kids and our relatives.”

Those donating such as Ankeny Centennial Higher University senior Kendall Jorgensen, who was taught by McColley during her many years at Northeast Elementary Faculty.

“I want I could explain to him more frequently how thankful I am for him and how huge his affect is on my life,” Jorgensen stated. “I individually donated $250 but I would give him the entire world if I could.”

McColley said he is humbled by the guidance.

“Part of me just does not realize what it is and why I ought to have the aid that any individual else would not get,” McColley claimed. “My heart is just entire.”