Continue Erik's Legacy: Care for Jenn

I am doing this on behalf of Erik and Jenn Christensen.

It has been one month since Erik has passed after several years of battling cancer. I came to know Jenn and Erik after they moved back to Alaska a little over four years ago. In those years, watching Jenn and Erik walk this path has been both inspiring and heartbreaking.

Erik's TankDuck story is one that not only moves you to tears, but has become an entire movement - basically a brand - that those who are honored to know it, understand it to be one of strength, determination, and frankly, a whole lot of attitude ;) Erik always made sure to keep us well supplied with stickers to tag any place TankDuck would feel at home. I loved finding one randomly across Alaska (usually a brewery), sending him a pic, and checking to see if he had placed it or if TankDuck continued to conquer. Every time I see that Duck, I will smile and cry thinking of Erik, of Jenn, and the battle they fought.

Erik's passing has left Jenn with numerous medical bills and their home also needs extensive repairs which had fallen secondary to focusing on Erik and his health. In my many conversations with Jenn in recent weeks, she has expressed being overwhelmed by the amount of love and support that have flooded to her and Erik. She feels humbled and she feels loved. She also feels heartbroken and scared of what's to come, struggling to see her next step.

I was privileged to be with Jenn and Erik in their final days, and when Erik would look up at Jenn to tell her he loved her, it was apparent he wanted her to be cared for. He held on beyond any comprehension because he kept telling her he didn't want to leave her.

Yes, we know Jenn, she is the most resilient and amazing person I know, and she will manage as she always does. However, I have realized that what I could do - what we could do - is help Erik continue to take care of Jenn.