Michael Tafreshi Memorial Fund

Last September, Michael Tafreshi suffered a major heart attack that took his life.  He left behind his wife Wendy and their two young sons, Michael- 7 and Joseph-3.  Although Michael and Wendy were discussing plans in case of a tragic event, they were not in place at the time of Michael's death.  There was no financial safety net to help Wendy and the boys through this unimaginable tragedy.

In additon to going back to work full time, Wendy also became a sales consultant for Younique to make extra money from home.  Despite her best efforts, working two jobs, Wendy and her boys are still struggling.  Wendy is desperately trying to keep Michael's boys in the  family home that he loved so much, filled with their family memories and close to Michael's beloved vineyard.  Wendy is now also soley responsible for all of the household bills as well as the financial responsibilies of raising two young boys.  

I have known Wendy since we were 10 years old.  She is a kind, loving, loyal and strong woman.  She is the woman Michael chose to spend his life with and the mother of his two beautiful children.  When we first discussed creating this page last year, even through her sadness and uncertainty, Wendy didn't want to ask people to donate their hard earned money.  Wendy was determined.  As a friend, it's been both difficult and awe inspiring to watch Wendy as she stepped into her new role of widow and sole provider.  She has been juggling 2 jobs, the kids, the bills, her grief and emotionally supporting Michael and Joseph who are devestated by the loss of their father.  Although she is heart broken and exhausted, she has never given up.  When myself and other close friends discussed the idea of this page again, we realized Wendy can't do it alone.  The reality is, we all need a little help sometimes.  

Wendy and Michael's main goal has always been keeping the Tafreshi boys in their family home.  All the money raised will go toward that objective.  Wendy's other 2 jobs will just about cover the other expenses.

I ask you all to remember that any amount helps. Put yourself in her shoes and ask yourself, how would you go on?  How would you survive?  Sometimes it's the kindess of friends and strangers that pull you through.  

Thank you all so much for taking the time to read their story.  Any donation is enormously appreciated.  If you're not in a position to donate monetarily, please say a prayer for the Tafreshi family.  The holiday season is especially challenging for Wendy and the boys and his absence is even more heartbreaking.   Finally, we would like you to know that when in a position to do so, this kindess will be paid forward.

God bless.