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Jayden's Education Fund, for Albert

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During the early morning of February 25th, 2015, Albert Shannon Turnage was walking home with a friend when he was tragically shot and killed-- an innocent bystander in an act of violence in Rogers Park. 

For those of you who knew Albert, you probably also knew Katie.

Albert and Katie met when he was 11 years old and she was working at a group home for children. During that time, Katie became his mentor, confidante, and biggest supporter. Their bond was established over evenings of homework help, talks about his love of family, school, girls, Jordans, & how important it is to always have a perfectly coordinated outfit.

The foundation of love had been laid, so when Albert was diagnosed with childhood cancer at 14 years, it was Katie to whom he turned throughout the journey of treatment. Over months in the hospital, playing eye spy, watching movies, eating Lemonheads, & praying that the chemotherapy would save him, Albert and Katie became family. He valiantly beat cancer and in the process crowned Katie his 'fairy godmother'- they became an unstoppable team, building a safe and loving home where Albert was free to become the man he knew he could be.

One of Albert's greatest gifts to this world is his son, Jayden, whom he adored, cherished, and now leaves behind. It was on Jayden's 6th birthday that Albert was killed.

Jayden, this golden, beautiful, sweet child, was the center of his father's world. He is Albert's legacy. We feel the best way to honor Albert's memory is to support Jayden's future. This fund will be Albert's lasting gift to his beloved baby boy.

The money deposited in this account will be transferred directly into a Bright Start Savings account (Illinois' 529 plan) that will automatically transfer to Jayden when he turns 18. It will be used to pay for qualified education expenses tax-free. 

Thank you in advance for your support of Jayden, Stephanie (Jayden's mom), and Katie in this difficult time.
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Donations 

  • Anonymous
    • $75 
    • 9 yrs
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Organizer

Katie Cangemi
Organizer
Wilmette, IL

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