Donna Eichenwald Memorial Fund

Donna Young Eichenwald was a brilliant and multi-talented professional musician and communications specialist who won friends wherever she ventured due to her sparkling wit, magnetic personality, and generous nature. After marrying and moving from New Jersey to Austin, Texas, she became the mother of twin boys in February 2005. Donna was a caring and involved mom who always put her boys first. One of them, Leo, is non-verbal with an autism diagnosis; over the years Donna became a tireless advocate for him and for special-needs children in general, never giving up on Leo or his potential, and came to be respected as a role model and inspiration by many other mothers with whom she networked. Leo's twin, Luka, is a bright, insightful pre-teen and budding writer who has taken on the "big brother" role of Leo's protector and best friend. 

Tragically, after a lengthy illness Donna passed away in January at the age of 56, leaving behind her two sons in fifth grade, shortly before they would celebrate their 11th birthdays. (Donna's obituary is available online here. ) Her husband Wes is now raising the boys by himself, with assistance from family and friends, and would like to help ensure their future through a college fund for Luka and a special-needs trust for Leo. 

Donna's family is extremely grateful for any support her friends and other interested parties might be able to provide. We can tell you without a doubt that knowing her boys would be provided for in their later lives meant everything to Donna. She would thank you most of all.