Burial and expenses for Tomaz J. Shessia

Hi my name is Cheryl and I have been Jo’s best friend for over 17 years. On Wednesday, March 23, 2022, Tomaz Jakai Shessia was taken from this earth in an ugly act of gun violence. Jody Shessia was asked to care for Tomaz and his twin Nevaeh when they were 5 months old through the foster system, and she didn’t hesitate. When they turned 2 1/2 years old, Jo legally adopted them and became a true mother for the first time. As a family, they shared many adventures with each other. Even after Tomaz became a young adult and left the nest to discover himself, Jo tried to be a guiding hand. No one can imagine the heartbreak she’s going through; no one is ever prepared for the death of a child. I am doing this fundraiser because Jo is going to be bringing her son home soon to lay him to rest, and she’s going to need help due to the unexpected nature of Tomaz’s departure at such a young age. Because of the way that Tomaz was killed, Jo will not be having an open casket, and they will be cremating him. We are asking anybody who is able to help to please help in any way you see fit. We welcome prayers, donations, well wishes, and words of encouragement. This Go Fund Me is for Jody Shessia, Tomaz’s adopted mother, who was a part of his life from 6 months old, raised him for 20 years, and needs help laying her baby to rest. I am aware there is another fundraiser helping his biological mother with their grief, but this one is solely to cover the cost of his burial.