My Auntie Rita has always been one of the kindest, most giving people I know. She is often seen solving one of her puzzle books, and she loves to cook - she's written me probably 100 recipe cards, and her mac and cheese is my favorite ever. She collects elephants and she loves a White Russian. She drew my mom a gigantic framed photo of The Beatles that hung on our wall for years. Everyone who has ever met her adores her.

After several years of declining health, my Auntie Rita suffered a cardiac arrest last week and was rushed to the emergency room. She has been on life support for nearly a week, and we have been told that she remains unresponsive and will not make it through this.

My family is heartbroken, and unprepared for the financial burden of her loss. We truly appreciate any help towards a service and cremation for my sweet Auntie Rita.