We are all struggling to wrap our minds around the world without someone who brought so much laughter, care, and understanding to our lives. It is truly amazing to see how many people have reached out to share in our grief, the reminiscing of the memories we will cherish, and tragically accepting the future without Mandy.

Many people have asked if we had set anything up for any kind of donations, because they want to help during these impossible times. Once again, I find myself searching for the right words to say. And if I’m being honest, Mandy would have the words and would be the one typing this right now. But she would never do this for herself. She wasn’t one to ask for help. But she would be the first one to make sure the people she loved were being helped.

As you all know at the age of 22, our precious Annabelle is making the arrangements for her 39 year-old mother. She is the strongest kid I know. My heart breaks watching her go through the process of saying goodbye to her mother that loved her and was always so proud. And I promise at this darkest moment her mother would be the most proud. Mandy was a friend to all. She could have any room laughing, singing, dancing, and most of all just happy.

Mandy was not given the chance to fight or get better. If she was, she would have shown her strength and overcome this. With this being so sudden and far too soon, we were not prepared for just how much this sort of thing costs. And again, since people were asking how they could help, we chose to organize this. If are able to donate, that is amazing. If not, that is more than okay. If you wouldn’t mind sharing, that would help as well. Any money received will be going towards the high cost of the funeral services. Some will also go to help our daughter who has taken the time from work to care for her mother, both in the hospital and at home. It will also hopefully allow her to take a little time to process the impossible.

Please keep sharing photos and memories and keep Mandy’s laughter and memories alive. We cannot thank everybody enough for all the love and support you have shown. Hug the ones you love and always take time to build memories because sometimes that’s all you have.