JoAn (Jo) Cook was just days into a promotion from bartender at Dogwood Southern Table & Bar to lead bartender at Dressler’s Metropolitan when she suffered injuries from a serious car accident. The accident left her with a shattered pelvis, and after emergency surgery and days in the ICU, she’ll have to heal for weeks before beginning physical therapy to regain the ability to walk.

Like most restaurant employees, she does not have health insurance. We’re devastated for Jo, whose genuine personality is one of the many reasons we’ve become regulars at SouthPark’s Dogwood. She never seems to let a bad day cloud her lighthearted conversations with regulars and newcomers alike, a less-than-five-foot person with a big smile and big heart.

She will continue to get her salary, Rare Roots Hospitality (Dressler’s, The Porter’s House, Dogwood) owner Jon Dressler says, and her position will be kept for her at Dressler’s Metropolitan. Her promotion was well-deserved; Jo’s use of interesting and seasonal ingredients in syrups and infusions give her cocktails a unique personality.

Without insurance, her emergency hospital visit will leave her with massive bills. A GoFundMe has been started to help cover these costs and get Jo back on her feet again, literally. If you’re in a place to help out, you can do so by donating here.

We’re also sending good vibes for a speedy recovery. —Kristen Wile