In loving memory of my son, Roman Sakac, who passed away unexpectedly at just 22 years old. Roman had a big heart. His kindness, smile, and positivity touched so many lives. He supported local businesses, helped neighbours without being asked, and would stop to help a stranger anytime he saw someone in need. That was just who he was.

My name is Dasha Sakac. Since losing my son, many people who knew him, or even just heard about him, have asked me what I am going to do to honour Roman. At first, I wasn’t ready to answer at the time, but one thing I knew for certain is that he could not be forgotten.

Over time, I began to feel called to do something meaningful, something that reflects the good he brought into this world. I cannot change what happened, but I can try to continue the kindness he showed every day. I feel called to pass that kindness forward in a way that could help others, just as Roman always did, by helping restore a sacred place that means so much — the historic church on the island of Badija, part of the Korčula Archipelago in Croatia.

The island was first settled by monks who sought spiritual sanctuary in its peaceful surroundings. It is home to the ruins of the 16th-century Church of St. Catherine and the 15th-century Franciscan monastery with its late Gothic cloisters and historic church tower. The island carries centuries of faith and history, including devotion to the Virgin Mary, believed to have saved Korčula in 1571 after an Ottoman invasion when a sudden, powerful storm (Bora wind) halted the Turkish fleet led by Uluj Ali Pasha. Franciscans and locals prayed to an icon of Our Lady of Mercy, leading to the miraculous defense.

Today, this sacred church is severely damaged. Due to structural safety issues, including major roof deterioration and erosion, masses can no longer be held there. Despite years of neglect and abandonment, the spirit of the island lives on. The local community continues to preserve it through volunteer work, generously donating their time and skills.

Our goal is to raise $25,000 to help repair the roof and address the structural damage so this holy place can once again safely welcome worshippers and visitors.

I feel especially called to do this in 2026, as Pope Leo XIV has declared it the Year of Saint Francis of Assisi, a saint devoted to poverty, humility, and service to the poor. Restoring this Franciscan site during this sacred year would be a powerful tribute not only to Saint Francis’ mission of service, but to Roman’s spirit of kindness and compassion.

Every donation, no matter the size, helps restore this beautiful place of faith, history, and community.

Thank you for helping me honour my son’s memory by continuing his legacy of goodness and generosity.