On Wednesday, October 19th, after a sudden illness, and two weeks in the hospital, we unexpectedly lost a beloved advocate, Carol Terwilliger.

Carol graduated Suma Cum Laude from Columbia University, with a Nursing Degree. During her career, she worked in Labor & Delivery, Cardiac Surgery, NICU, and Psychiatric Care. Carol was also in recovery, and she spent many years advocating for those with Substance Use Disorder. This included, speaking out about the underbelly of the treatment industry / body brokering. Carol worked tirelessly for others, always paying special attention to the “underdogs.”

However, Carol was so much more than the online presence the recovery community knew. Carol was a beloved Mother, Sister, Aunt, Grandmother, and friend. Carol was an animal lover and would rescue many wayward critters. She would give the shirt off her back for those in need. She left behind two sisters, five children, and grandchildren.

Now, those family members need help bringing Carol home from Ohio (where she was hospitalized) to West Virginia. Carol had a will, but it was not signed. She was a simple woman, therefore, she didn’t have many possessions. Her sudden loss has left all five children responsible for her cremation, sale of her small home, including repairs, and medical expenses.

Currently, the family is looking for help with the cremation, transportation, and distribution of her of her ashes. Carols wish was to be split between her five children. She didn’t want a funeral, so her family is respecting those wishes. The cost of this is around $3,000 and any extra would be put towards medical bills or any other leftover expenses. 

For those that are able to donate to her family in their time of need, it would be greatly appreciated. For those that are unable, we humbly ask that you share this fundraiser. Donations given will go directly to her daughter as designated and decided by the rest of her family.