Ella's Last Wish: Rest with Family

Dear friends, family, and kind-hearted strangers,

It’s with deep sadness that I share the unexpected passing of our beloved friend, Teacher Ella, while en route back to the Philippines. (7/24) She was a beautiful soul — full of wit, warmth, and quiet strength — and she left us far too soon.

Ella had been bravely battling cancer, pushing through with unwavering determination. Despite everything she endured, she remained hopeful and was finally on her way home to reunite with her family — a reunion she longed for and truly deserved. But heartbreakingly, that chance was taken from her too soon.

She passed away during her journey, and her remains are currently in Japan. Due to the circumstances, her body will be cremated there. However, there are still many uncertainties and arrangements to be made, and we are doing our best to handle everything with care and dignity.

***update:

*Ella’s remains are still in Japan, and we recently received news that she cannot be cremated, as her passing occurred outside of the country. Instead, embalming is required.

*This has added another challenge for her grieving family, as the embalming alone costs approximately ¥888,000 (around $6,000 USD). We have to prepare the cost of flying her from Japan to PH as well.

This fundraiser is a humble and heartfelt call for help — one last time — to cover the remaining costs of her cremation, necessary documentation, and most importantly, to bring her ashes home to her family in the Philippines, where she can finally rest in peace.

In addition, your support will help ease the burden of the medical expenses that’s left behind, which have also added to the challenges her loved ones now face in this time of grief.

Any amount you can give, no matter how small, will make a difference. And if you’re unable to donate financially, we ask for your prayers and for sharing this campaign to reach others who may be able to help.

Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your love, support, and kindness during this incredibly difficult time. Let’s help bring Teacher Ella home.