The Jones Foundation for Aneurysms was established in memory of Robert J. Jones, who endured significant health challenges after an undiagnosed brain aneurysm ruptured.

My father, Robert J. Jones, was a pillar of strength in our family and in the community he served so faithfully. He was a man of dignity, responsibility, and unwavering devotion to those around him. One day, in the midst of his everyday work, my father suddenly collapsed. We rushed him to the hospital in fear and disbelief, only to learn that he had suffered a ruptured brain aneurysm, complicated by an arteriovenous malformation (AVM) of the vessel in his brain.

That day marked the beginning of a journey none of us could have ever prepared for.  My father underwent multiple craniotomies, fighting for his life while our family held on to faith and prayer. For a year and a half, he remained in a coma—a time that tested our endurance and our hope. The devastation we felt was indescribable. How could such a tragedy strike a man who lived his life with such purpose and selflessness?

But even in the valley of despair, we witnessed resilience. My father eventually emerged from his coma, though life was never the same. His recovery came with profound limitations. He required complete care—dependent on others for every aspect of daily living. Yet, in the midst of those challenges, our family clung to love.

For many years, my mother, Florence C. Jones, served as his devoted caregiver.  Alongside her, my sister, Tanya C. Gary, and I shared the responsibility of providing support care. We organized shifts, coordinated with doctors, and learned what it meant to sacrifice and serve with grace. Caring for my father was both an honor and a burden—it changed us, shaped us, and revealed the hidden struggles families endure when such a silent, devastating condition strikes a loved one.

Though we gave him everything we could, my father’s earthly journey came to an end in 2020. His passing left a void in our lives, but also a legacy of strength and community.

In the year that followed, my own story unfolded in unexpected ways. In 2021, while managing abnormal headaches and relentless pressure, I requested diagnostic imaging. As a registered nurse, I trusted my instinct—and it saved my life. The scans revealed that I had an ACA aneurysm. Unlike my father, mine was detected early, and I underwent repair. I survived because of vigilance, access to care, and the ability to advocate for myself—privileges not everyone has.

It was in that moment that clarity struck me: our community deserves better. Families should not have to endure what mine endured. People should not have to suffer in silence with undetected aneurysms, and no family should face the crushing financial, emotional, and physical toll alone.

As I continued my studies toward a Doctorate in Healthcare Administration, I began researching the disparities that surround brain aneurysms. What I found deepened my resolve, particularly among Black and Brown communities, financial insecurity and systemic barriers delay diagnosis and treatment, leading to worse outcomes and greater suffering.

This is why the Jones Foundation for Aneurysms was born.

Our mission is not only to educate the public about the warning signs and risks of brain aneurysms but also to provide comfort and support to families walking the same road my family walked. We exist to advocate for financial relief for caregivers who sacrifice so much to care for their loved ones, and for equitable access to healthcare, ensuring that early detection is possible for everyone, not just the privileged.

This foundation carries Robert J. Jones’ name, but more than that, it holds his spirit. It is a living testimony to his strength, our family’s endurance, and my survival. It is a promise to the community that no family should ever feel alone when facing this silent killer.

Through education, advocacy, research, and compassion, we will turn our pain into purpose so that Robert J. Jones’ story is not just remembered but becomes a force for saving lives and restoring hope.

Gracefully,

Darrel K. Jones, DHA, MSN, RN

Chief Executive Officer