I have heard the phrase 'a life cut short' so many times, but today that phrase weighs on my heart more than ever. Malakai Amayas Tony Brown went to be with his baby brother Mikkah this morning. Mal was only 26 years old. He was just 6 when I first met him, and it hurts deeply to know that the last time I hugged him was truly the last. My heart breaks as I watch my sister Toni endure another indescribable loss, something no mother should ever have to face.

I am setting up this GoFundMe to help Toni honor Malakai with a celebration of life and to support his younger sister, Bryoni, who was not only his sibling but someone he cared for like a father. Mal had the biggest personality, so much love to give, and always put others before himself. He loved to cook and was truly talented in the kitchen. He and Bryoni were just recently checking out colleges together, and she always made him so proud. Our world will be less without him, and the pain of his absence is felt deeply by all who loved him.

Please donate what you can to help ease the financial obligations that no mother should have to face once, let alone being forced to lose and bury another son. Your support, prayers, and sharing of this fundraiser mean the world to us. We already miss you, Mal—give Mikkah big hugs from all of us.