Hello, I’m a friend of Elana James, and I’m creating this GoFundMe page to help Elana with legal expenses she’s incurred in the aftermath of the tragic murder of her mom, Susan Hammerton.

As many of you may be aware, Elana’s Mom, Susan Hammerton, was murdered in her own home in Ann Arbor, Michigan just over a year ago. She was 81 years old, a beautiful, bright, witty, extremely active woman, a gardener, a professional violinist, ardent traveler and lover of her grandchildren, children, and her dog, Isabelle. A man has been arrested and charged with her murder and related crimes, and is being held without bond.

As her Mom’s trustee, Elana has been responsible for settling her Mom’s estate and is being sued in an ownership dispute over her Mom’s beloved ten-year-old golden retriever, Isabelle, who was also stabbed in the attack.

2025 has been a nightmare for Elana. While dealing with the shock and grief surrounding the tragic loss of her mother, Elana has had to (successfully) defend herself against the threat of criminal charges in connection with the dispute over Isabelle. Elana was forced to surrender Isabelle in August.

On December 18, a court-ordered mediation is scheduled in which Elana hopes to reach a fair agreement regarding Isabelle’s custody and bring this part of the nightmare surrounding her Mother’s murder to an end.

Elana’s music, friendship, and joyful spirit have touched many, many lives. Your donation of any amount is much appreciated and will really help out!

Sincerely, Nancy Padilla