Karen Jones, a board member for the California Self Storage Association (CSSA), and her husband, Scott, were seriously injured Nov. 22 in a head-on vehicle collision in Southern California. Both are in intensive care in a San Diego-area hospital. Karen is in a medically induced coma with extensive injuries, including internal bleeding and broken bones, according to Emily O’Leary, who has organized a campaign to raise money for the Jones’ medical expenses.
“While Scott is showing signs of improvement, Karen's injuries are much more extensive,” O’Leary said. Both were scheduled to undergo surgery on Tuesday, according to “The Storage Facilitator,” an industry blog.
A drunk driver is suspected of causing the accident, according to the information O’Leary posted on YouCaring.com, a Web-based fundraising platform. As of Nov. 26, the donation campaign has raised more than $15,000 toward a goal of $50,000. Donations will be accepted through March 31, 2015.
“While Scott and Karen recover, they will both be out of work for an undetermined amount of time. Not only will they need to cover their regular monthly bills, they now also need to pay for their medical bills and any other associated costs,” O’Leary wrote. “Karen has spent her life caring for others; it's time we all help her and Scott!”
Karen Jones joined the self-storage industry in 2011 when she became director of Kure It Cancer Research, a nonprofit dedicated to funding kidney and other cancer research. The group was founded by industry veteran Barry Hoeven and has been supported by numerous self-storage operators and vendors. Jones currently serves as a consultant with StoreLocal Corp., a co-op of private self-storage operators in Canada and the United States. The group leverages the combined strength of its membership for services such as financing, marketing and technology.
“We were devastated to learn of this tragic news,” CSSA Executive Director Erin King told the Facilitator blog. “Our thoughts and prayers go out to Karen, her husband, Scott, and her children during this difficult time.” The CSSA is a nonprofit trade association dedicated to supporting the self-storage industry in California. The group offers educational events, networking opportunities, legislative advocacy and more.
Sources:
- Self-Storage Talk: Karen Jones (Kure It & C.S.S.A.) Fund
- The Storage Facilitator: Medical Fund Established for Former Kure It Director Karen Jones
- YouCaring.com: Medical Funds for Scott and Karen Jones
