My sweet baby sister, Tiera, passed away very unexpectedly, and I am completely devastated to say the least.

Tiera and I went through so much together, like losing our mom when we were little and her losing her dad shortly after. She faced a lot of struggles in life more than anyone should ever have to, but through it all she cared so much for other people. No matter what she was going through, she always tried to show up for the ones she loved. She was always compassionate, even to animals. She never wanted to do anybody or anything any harm. She had the brightest smile, the biggest laugh, and was always the life of the party (even if she showed up a little late).

In June, she lost the love of her life, Lee, her partner of over 15 years and the father of their only child, Tahlia. In the midst of all that she had a broken ankle and had to get surgery. This left her in constant pain while grieving. She was struggling with such a tremendous loss and also being a newly and unexpectedly single mother. These past few months, she's had everything stacked against her. Things I won't share but, she was also celebrating getting her first place on her own and being sober for two years.

Tiera struggled with addiction in the past, but she'd been clean for the past two years because she finally became a mom. She always wanted to be a mom and was always told she would never have children but, God blessed her. And she was such a good mom. She adored Tahlia with all her heart. I know how much it tore my sister up that Tahlia lost her dad, and now Tahlia just a few months later has lost her mom. Tiera also very much loved her first baby, her dog Chupa.

The circumstances of her passing are still unclear, but I know the weight of what she was carrying and have my own ideas. But, since nothing is confirmed as of yet. I don't want to make assumptions. Mainly because all of this is so much to accept as it is. But please, if you know someone who may be struggling with addiction, someone who may be dealing with unimaginable grief, or is battling mental health issues. ANYTHING! — don’t wait. Reach out. Stay close. Show them love.

Now I’m faced with planning my baby sister’s funeral. Something, I was absolutely unprepared for. I want to send her off with love and dignity and I need YOUR help. The funds will go toward her funeral arrangements, clearing her apartment and storing her belongings, and caring for her sweet 2-year-old daughter my precious niece, Tahlia.

If you can help at all by donating or sharing this I would be deeply grateful.

Thank you for loving Tiera with me and helping me give her the goodbye she deserves.

With love,

Tasha