In Loving Memory of Kaiza Jerica

It is with a heavy heart that I share the loss of our beloved Kaiza, who passed away on April 7, 2025, just one week after her 30th birthday.

What began as abdominal pain last fall turned into something more serious. Kaiza was diagnosed with a dermoid cyst in her ovaries and traveled to the Philippines with her mom for surgery. Shortly after the procedure, she suffered a seizure and was rushed to the ER. While there, she experienced a second seizure that led to encephalitis, causing damage to the left side of her brain and taking away her ability to walk and urinate on her own.

Kaiza spent four long months in the Philippines, fighting to recover. In her final month there, she made progress through physical therapy and was finally strong enough to return “home” to San Francisco.

But just three weeks later, she was readmitted to the ICU. Doctors discovered that she had lupus, along with a severe yeast infection in her bloodstream. Sadly, she became septic. Kaiza passed away with her younger and only brother, Jalen, by her side during her final moments.

There are no words to truly capture what Kaiza meant to those who knew her. She was truly a light in this world. She loved God and always prayed. Her laughter could lift your spirits and above all, she was kind. She was the type of person who would give you her last dollar without hesitation.

Both of my parents migrated from the Philippines to Saipan, so I didn’t grow up surrounded by cousins. But Kaiza was the closest thing I had to one. Our families migrated to Saipan together, and with us being eight months apart in age, Kaiza became the older sister I never had, my Godsister.

Throughout the years, she was my constant. She was someone I could laugh with, confide in, and always count on. She was my safe space, and her presence brought so much comfort. Kaiza gave her whole heart to the people she loved.

I am kindly asking for help to ease the financial burden on her family. After months of ongoing medical expenses, we want to give Kaiza the beautiful farewell she deserves. Funds will be used towards cremation and memorial services, which will be held on April 23 in Northern California.

If you are able, please consider donating in Kaiza’s memory. Every contribution, no matter how small, makes a difference.

From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for your support, your prayers, and for keeping Kaiza’s spirit alive in your thoughts.

With love,

Dhale and the Ricafort-Lucido Family