Help defray funeral costs for Hawi

Hawi Bayan Kassim was a 7-year old force of nature with a striking smile and a sense of humor to match. She passed away Wednesday morning from complications due to a heart condition. Although her spirit was mighty, Hawi was born with a weak heart and by the time she was 2 years old, she got a new one. Despite her challenging start to life, Hawi entered new places with her big smile, confident attitude and left her mark. Hawi is survived by her heartbroken parents and siblings Amani, Maryam, Khalid, and younger siblings Makkoo and Barroo. After a tough summer of health complications, Hawi had been well enough to start second grade at Whitehead Road Elementary, which she had attended since pre-k. Her teachers and friends are also devastated to lose her.

Please support the Sheko family at this difficult time. Funds raised will help to cover medical expenses and funeral costs.

Hawi’s dad Bayan has been an employee of the US Forest Service for the past twenty years. Although native to Ethiopia, Bayan immigrated to the US, and then joined the US Army and served as a medic in the First Gulf War.