Anyone who has met Daria knows she is special. Anyone who loves her knows she’s been through more pain in one lifetime than anyone should have to endure. And anyone who has taken time to listen to her for more than three minutes knows that her passion in life is Amy. Her love for Amy is real, unending, deep. They had just reconnected. Daria had just found the career for which she was proud, talented, and respected for exactly who she is, finally. Life was looking bright. You’ve likely heard that Daria’s brightness faded to a flicker over the weekend, and she passed Monday morning quite literally surrounded by a sisterhood of love and laughter. I can assure you that Daria got her way—she was the center of attention up until that last breath.

Eight months ago, at 48, she went to the ER with abdominal pain and came home with a diagnosis of colon, liver, and lung cancer. Like the force that she is, she fought it and fought it hard. She planned to kick cancer’s ass, in the same manner, she arrives at every other juncture in her life—with energy, passion, fortitude, and a rather large helping of badassery. Her plan did not work out how anyone wanted it, and now, here we are. Daria-less, in what I can guarantee, will be a much less fun place to be. We will survive. We have to because, well, I’m certain Daria wants the party to continue. Karaoke, anyone?

Driving to Seattle every two weeks for treatment and enduring the inevitable side effects, Daria still attempted to work on the few days she felt well enough to show up, and they were few and far between. Months ago, Daria would not permit to create a Go Fund Me campaign, even though her life savings were being drained. She was too proud to accept the help then, but now it isn’t just about her; it’s for Amy. Every time I talked to Daria since her diagnosis, she asked if I would take care of Amy when she was gone. One way I know I can help bring a teensy bit of peace to their family right now is through a month or two of bills being paid. If you’ve got a bit to spare, they could use it. Anything you can offer will go towards rent and getting Amy started with whatever new life lies ahead. Been wondering what you can do to help? This. And now is the time.

Thank you in advance for our village coming together and considering Amy and Daria’s family and friends, and keeping them in your thoughts for far longer than they will show you they need it. Daria, thank you for all the beyond-good times. I can promise you I will be toasting a lemonade in your honor every chance I get.

With love and much respect,

The village supporting Daria