MYKEL "MAHALO" VANEK Funeral Fundraiser

My name is Valerie I'm writing this on behalf of my Daughter Mykel. Tuesday morning January 23rd Mykel was found alone in her home unconscious and unresponsive. She was immediately transported to Valley Hospital where she received a CAT scan showing that she had suffered 2 aneurysms (burst blood vessels) in her right and left frontal lobe. She was stabilized, placed on a ventilator and transported to Deaconess ICU. The Neurosurgeon and other very competent hospital staff completed a battery of tests. The conclusion of which showed that Mykel had, over time, been developing a blood clot (most likely caused by her birth control). Hospital staff began treatment to reduce the blood clot with high hopes of recovery. Unfortunately in the early hours of January 31st a 3rd bleed developed causing irrevitable damage. Fully aware of Mykel's wishes, the decision was made to remove support. Mykel passed quickly and peacefully surrounded by her family that afternoon. My assumption is that most of you reading this are aware of the situation. That you already know the amazing, vibrant, accomplished young woman we all loved and cared for! But some of you might not know about all of the trials and tribulations that Mykel had already experienced and overcome in her short 26 years. At the age of 2 she was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia "ALL" even at that young age she was strong and brave! After 3 1/2 years of ups and downs, multiple surgeries, more pokes, prods and procedures than I can count. She came out the other side a happy, energetic, caring, and optimistic little girl! She began going to Camp Goodtimes, a childhood cancer summer camp, when she was 6. Over the years she went from Camper to Camp Leader. Even helping raise funds when the camp was a risk of being closed and it's transition into Camp Journey. Mykel was extremely motivated throughout school and was accepted into Running Start her Jr. Year when she began going to College at EWU. She excelled in college and at the age of just 21 had a double bachelor's in advertising and computer graphics. She used these skills not just to advance her own career but also contribute to Camp Journey. Helping design websites, create advising campaigns, and contribute to numerous fundraising benefits! As awesome as all that is it paled in comparison to her aggressive love of the camp, her fellow campers that she had grown up with, and all of the new campers that she had recruited over the years. Not just campers but volunteers who now take their time and compassion to provided an amazing experience for old and new Cancer patients and survivors today! While expanding her career, contributing to the camp, exploring her ever growing love of crafts, including macrame and stained glass which she sells at a local craft fair with her grandmother Vickie. She also found the time to compete in multiple dart tournaments playing on 2 local leagues in Washington and Idaho. Though I got her to start throwing darts with me a few years ago she had far surpassed me!! Surprising not only herself but everyone who participated with her! Throughout all this Mykel had battled with numerous other smaller health conditions, resulting from the extensive chemotherapy she received as a child, that plagued her unfortunately her entire life. Not surprisingly she also battled with bouts of severe depression and anxiety. But even in this she found ways to try and help others experiencing the same. With a helping hand and an open ear for everyone she knew! Willing to share her difficult feelings and experiences in the hopes it might help others! Everywhere Mykel went she brought a light to the room and a vibrant presence to any situation! She will be heartily remembered by so very very many! The lives she touched are innumerable! Our family is not "well off" but we do scape by. The burden of Mykel's funeral arrangements will be difficult to cover on our own. So any and all donations will be greatly appreciated. For anyone that isn't able to contribute monetarily, your thoughts and well wishes mean far more to us than money! We would appreciate if you could pass this on to whomever you choose.