The Cast

For those of you who can't be here, I thought you'd enjoy learning about the cast of family and friends surrounding Jeff. Remember, Jeff is the guy who will do anything for anyone and that is so apparent by the love and loyalty surrounding him.

Amanda - The strongest woman we all know. Keeping watch over her man day and night, she is a rock. When she leaves his side, it's to take care of business - paperwork, phone calls and all things needed to keep things moving. Her love gives us all strength.

Joan/Mom - Mom flew in like superwoman to keep vigil at her boy's bedside. She keeps us all entertained with stories of Jeff's many adventures. Her quiet strength is inspiring and she gives him comfort with her loving touch.

Julie - Jeff's sister who watches over mom and Jeff like a mother hen. She may be miles away, but her presence is felt and her love is so strong.

Amanda's family in Michigan - Her mother, father and sisters who protect her with ferocity. They continue to give her strength and guidance and send their love.

Jeanne - The neighbor with a halo. Jeanie is a nurse. She speaks to Jeff's nurses and doctors several times a day and gets the real deal. She has no fear and makes sure they all know she will take charge if need be. She truly is an angel to Jeff and Amanda.

Mike - The other neighbor with a halo. Mike has taken charge of caring for the dogs at home, keeping watch over the house and even cooking fabulous meals for everyone. Mike and Jeanie are the dynamic duo.

Pam-I-Am - Amanda's sidekick. Pam did not leave her side for 3 days. She recently took a break to visit her ailing father, but checks in several times a day. Pam is a vodka mop and a best friend to both Amanda and Jeff. She's here for the long haul.

Kyle and Jaron - What can one say about this pair?! With Jeff, they are the three stooges. Inappropriate humor and fiercely loyal friendship bond them together. They will not leave his side and are taking care of his lady as if she was theirs.

Andrew - The other friend that has not left Amanda's side. Andrew brings a personal perspective to Jeff's situation. His wealth of knowledge will prove to be invaluable. Not only a loving, loyal friend, Andrew will serve as a teacher throughout this entire experience. His loving fiancee, Kalli - so strong and dependable - is always by his side.

Nicholle - Jaron's saint of a wife. She stands by her friends and keeps the boys in check. Nicole quietly observes and swiftly takes action when needed.

Rene and BJ - Jeff is a brother to me. Since our teens, he has been a thorn in my side and the best friend I could ever have. BJ is his bud - I never knew two grown men could text so much! While we live one state away, we'll be here every moment we can, and we'll do as much as we can from a distance.

So, many others that we can all thank for being here:

The girlfriends (Roze and Lisa) who spit-shined Jeff and Amanda's house this weekend. Rob and Ty, the buddies who made some much-needed repairs to the Jeep and returned it home. All the boat club friends who continue to visit and send their well wishes and prayers. Their landlord, Mark, who immediately and without hesitation, gave permission to make any accommodations necessary to make sure he is comfortable in their home.

And, of course, all of you across the country whose thoughts and prayers continue to give Jeff and Amanda strength.