Hi, my name is John. I'm a friend to Gertrude and her family, and together with Henry Ayakwah who is Gertrude's brother we are putting this fundraiser together.

On Thursday, May 5, Gertrude Ayakwah tragically suffered a brain aneurysm that ultimately resulted in her passing away on Saturday, May 7.  Gertrude (42) leaves behind her husband Jeff and two young children, Sophia (6) and Jeffrey (2).

Gertrude moved from Ghana to the United States in 2007 and worked in the mining industry for companies that include Freeport McMoran Morenci and Baghdad and Rio Tinto Kennecott.  Gertrude had a heart of gold and a beautiful smile and personality.  She was the type of person you wanted to spend your time with and always made you feel good about yourself.  She will be deeply missed by her family, friends, colleagues, and all those that she came in contact with.

This GoFundMe has been established to help support the family in funeral costs as well as repatriation so Gertrude can be laid to rest in her home country of Ghana.

Your support is very much appreciated.